Man Rescued After Being Trapped Behind Waterfall For 2 Days

A California man survived two days trapped behind a waterfall in the Kern River thanks to a dramatic helicopter rescue, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) reported on Facebook.

46-year-old Ryan Wardwell was last observed Sunday at the top of the “Seven Teacups” waterfalls in the vicinity of the Kern River’s North Fork, the TCSO said. Wardwell had intended to rappel the waterfalls but did not come back to his vehicle late Sunday. The incident took place in the Sequoia National Forest, the Los Angeles Times reported. (RELATED: Rescuers Discover Deceased Body Of American Hiker In Spain)

The TCSO’s Emergency Services Division received notice that the man was missing Monday. Deputies launched a search operation with aircraft equipped with infrared technology and cameras. Due to difficult terrain and the time, the TCSO developed a rescue plan for early the next morning.

Swiftwater-Dive Rescue and Search-and-Rescue teams reached the area early Tuesday. A drone located Wardwell alive and active behind the waterfall. “He told Deputies he had come off his rappel lines and got trapped because of the river’s extreme hydraulics,” the department said.

A California Highway Patrol helicopter then assisted in the extraction. The crew lowered a TCSO rescue team member into the waterfall,  where he secured Wardwell and hoisted him to safety. The helicopter transported him to a landing area nearby. He received assistance with minor injuries and dehydration and met with family.

The TCSO Emergency Services Division said people should “always be aware of their environment and capabilities, especially when navigating white water rivers.”

The Seven Teacups Trail is marked by its cascading pools and powerful currents and rated Class 3C, making it a technically challenging route for hikers, according to Modern Hiker.