All water sources at Paradise are shut down at Paradise and Narada Falls including restrooms, water fountains, sinks, etc., after a heavy rain event affected the water system, resulting in a total loss of water. When water lines lose pressure, potentially harmful contaminants can enter the water system.
On Sept. 6, a strong thunderstorm over Mount Rainier caused heavy rainfall and runoff that disrupted the Paradise water supply system. The storm stirred up fine sediment in the Edith Creek drainage, the source of Paradise’s surface water. These materials clogged the water treatment system filters. Sedimentation from intense rain events has become a recurring challenge at Paradise, where the surface water source is particularly sensitive to loose soils and storm-driven debris, according to a Mount Rainier National Park news release.
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.
Staff have isolated all the buildings, shut down the restrooms and have brought in portable comfort stations. Fire suppression is on untreated water lines, and buildings continue to be protected.
The Paradise Inn dining room is closed, and there is limited food available at the visitor center and Paradise Inn snack bars. The National Park Inn dining room at Longmire is open. The closest restrooms with running water are at Cougar Rock picnic area and campground (nine miles southwest of Paradise, approximately 20-minute drive) and Longmire (three miles and five minutes further southwest).
Call Rainier Guest Services at 855-755-2275 for updates on Paradise Inn operations.
Visit the Mount Rainier National Park website alerts for the current status of Paradise water at https://tinyurl.com/mvbzauf3.
