Sequoia National Forest, California
Seven Teacups has to be one of the more iconic canyons in California. It's a name that gets tossed amongst the canyoneering community as one canyoneer continuously asks another if they have ever done Teacups before. As you hike through the Kern River Trail where you'll pass the exit of the canyon, you'll immediately realize why this canyon is called the Seven Teacups. Each waterfall leads to a bowl and each bowl flows over into another waterfall. You'll also have to cross a potentially dangerous Kern River during the 2nd half of the approach. The water flow can vary between moderate to extreme so take caution before you drop in. There are 4-5 rappels (with the longest rappel at 60 ft.) depending on what you jump/down climb. A wetsuit is recommended during the colder seasons.
Our approach starts at the beginning of the Kern River Trail along the Johnsondale Bridge (aka the full loop approach). After approximately 2 miles where you'll pass the Teacups along the trail, safely cross the Kern River where you will meet up with a brutal dirt trail that will really test your cardio. Our drop in starts above the official drop. We wanted to include a small and relaxing lazy river to really get our moneys worth out of this canyon!
Distance of the Approach: 3.3 miles total
Elevation Gain: 800 ft.
Directions to the parking lot near the Kern River Trail: Use the following coordinates in Google Maps to route your directions to the parking lot. Cross the Johnsondale Bridge to a flight of stairs where the Kern River Trail will begin.
35.969291, -118.487307
Parking Lot
Crossing the Johnsondale Bridge to the flight of stairs leading you to the start of the trail.
And we're off! The Kern River is beautiful.
Continuing on...
You can finally see the Teacups! Cross the Kern River a little after crossing the Teacups exit.
Crossing the Kern River with a hand line.
Starting up the brutal dirt trail. Lots of elevation gain in a short distance here!
Arrived at the drop in.
Britt's ready to go!
Start of the lazy river.
My favorite picture of Wes!
Water slides!
First jump.
Official start of the Teacups. First rappel.
Optional jump. I'd slide down if the water levels are low.
Next rappel. Walk to climber's right after you get off rappel.
3rd rappel into the famous towel bowl. The escape out of this can be challenging. Climb up to the slab on the right of this picture to find the next rap station.
Last rappel of the day! There is a redirect that you will have to pass your rope through.
Last swim out back into the Kern River.
Dog!
#25.
Chris's Difficulty Scale (Approach Only) - 3/10
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