News Summary
A 46-year-old man from Long Beach, Ryan Wardwell, was trapped behind a waterfall for two days after a rappelling accident at the Seven Teacups. Despite challenging search conditions, rescue teams located him using a drone. After being found in a dark cave, he was safely rescued, though he suffered from dehydration and minor injuries. This incident highlights the dangers of the area’s hiking routes, reminding adventurers to prioritize safety when exploring beautiful but risky locations.
California Man Rescued After Two-Day Ordeal
A daring adventure took a terrifying turn for a 46-year-old man named Ryan Wardwell, who found himself trapped behind a large waterfall for a grueling two days. This incident unfolded after his attempt to rappel down the Seven Teacups waterfalls on a Sunday evening took a painful twist when he was swept away by the strong hydraulics of the rushing water.
The Incident
Wardwell, a resident of Long Beach, had set out on what he had hoped would be an exciting day of climbing. However, the powerful water currents knocked him off his climbing lines, rendering him unable to escape. Friends who had joined him on this trip opted to turn back earlier due to safety concerns, leaving Wardwell to continue alone. They later left a note indicating to alert others in case his vehicle remained parked overnight. He was reported missing on Monday when he failed to return to his car as expected.
Search Efforts Begin
On Monday, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office received the report and quickly initiated search efforts. Unfortunately, the search was hampered by the challenging terrain and darkness that evening. As a result, dedicated teams reluctantly decided to hold off their search until the following morning when conditions would be safer for an effective search.
A Breakthrough
The next day, things took a promising turn when search crews used a drone to survey the area. This high-tech tool was instrumental in locating Wardwell, who had been hiding in a dark cave behind the waterfall. Rescuers confirmed he was alive and responsive, bringing a wave of relief to everyone involved in the search.
The Rescue
Following the drone’s success, the California Highway Patrol was notified, and a helicopter was dispatched to assist in the rescue operation. Finally, after two long days, Wardwell was pulled to safety. His ordeal left him suffering from dehydration and slight injuries, but thankfully he was alive. While he was huddled behind the waterfall, he faced uncomfortable conditions in the cold, dark environment without a way to warm up or dry off.
Safety Reminders
The Seven Teacups area, known for its stunning beauty, also carries inherent risks with its challenging waterfalls. Authorities emphasize that it rates as a Class 3C trail, indicating the need for intermediate technical skills and safety gear for climbers and hikers traversing the area. Disturbingly, the location has a history of accidents, with three people tragically drowning there back in August 2024. The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office reminded everyone—whether seasoned adventurers or newcomers—to always be mindful of their surroundings and their own capabilities when enjoying the majestic scenery of white-water rivers.
Final Thoughts
Wardwell’s experience serves as a cautionary tale for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. While it’s great to embrace adventure, being aware of the potential dangers is just as important. Here’s hoping his rescue sparks conversations about responsible adventuring in beautiful but perilous locations.
FAQs
What happened to Ryan Wardwell?
Ryan Wardwell was trapped behind a waterfall for two days after a rappelling mishap during his solo climbing attempt at the Seven Teacups waterfalls.
How did his friends know to report him missing?
His friends, who had accompanied him initially, left a note suggesting that someone should report him missing if his car was still at the trailhead overnight.
What was done to locate and rescue him?
A search operation that utilized a drone was instrumental in locating Wardwell behind the waterfall, leading to a helicopter rescue by the authorities.
What challenges do climbers face at the Seven Teacups?
The Seven Teacups area is known for its breathtaking waterfalls but is considered dangerous, with its route rated as Class 3C, requiring intermediate skills and safety equipment.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Ryan Wardwell, 46 years old from Long Beach, California. |
| Location | Seven Teacups waterfalls. |
| Duration of Trapping | Two days. |
| Rescue Team | Tulare County Sheriff’s Office and California Highway Patrol. |
| Conditions During Trapping | Dark cave, cold environment, no warmth or drying capabilities. |
| Risks Highlighted | Class 3C trail-rated dangers, previous drownings. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- CBS News
- Wikipedia: Seven Teacups
- NBC News
- Google Search: California waterfall rescue
- LA Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Waterfall
- Fox News
- Google News: California waterfall rescue
- New York Times
- Google Scholar: Seven Teacups waterfall
- People
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
