A severe thunderstorm on September 6 has caused a complete shutdown of water services at two of Mount Rainier National Park's most popular destinations: Paradise and Narada Falls. Park officials announced on Monday that heavy rainfall stirred up fine sediment in the Edith Creek drainage, Paradise's water source, clogging filters in the treatment system and rendering the water unsafe.
As a result, all restrooms, drinking fountains, and sinks in the affected areas have been closed until further notice. The park has isolated all buildings in the area and brought in portable comfort stations. Fire suppression systems remain functional but use untreated water.
The Paradise Inn dining room is closed, though limited food service is available at the Visitor Center and Paradise Inn snack bars. For full restroom access with running water, visitors can go to the National Park Inn dining room at Longmire, which remains open. The nearest functioning restrooms are at Cougar Rock picnic area and campground, about nine miles southwest of Paradise, and at Longmire, three miles farther.
“The park is working closely with the Washington State Department of Health to restore reliable water service for employees and visitors. Water will remain unavailable until it meets safe drinking water standards,” a park spokesperson said in a news release.
Paradise, located on the southern slope of Mount Rainier at about 5,400 feet, is renowned for its views, wildflower meadows, and record snowfall. Narada Falls, a 176-foot waterfall along the road between Longmire and Paradise, is also affected. The park urges visitors to plan accordingly and check for updates.
