Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers about Purgatory Chasm State Reservation in Sutton, Massachusetts, from DCR's own pages, map and guides. Each answer links to the page with the full detail. For anything time-sensitive, such as fee dates or winter closures, check with the DCR park office at (508) 234-3733.
Visiting
Where is Purgatory Chasm?
At 198 Purgatory Road, Sutton, Massachusetts 01590, run by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. It's a different place from the Purgatory Chasm in Middletown, Rhode Island.
What are the hours?
Sunrise to sunset, every day, year-round. DCR closes the Chasm Trail during the winter season; the other trails stay open.
Is Purgatory Chasm free?
There's no entrance fee. DCR charges for parking from May 9 to October 26 (2026): $5 for Massachusetts plates, $20 for others. The $60 Massachusetts annual parking pass covers it.
How long should I plan to spend?
At least an hour for the half-mile chasm loop; DCR schedules its guided chasm hike for one hour. With the other trails, a picnic and the playground, a half-day is easy.
Is it open in winter?
The reservation is, but DCR closes the Chasm Trail during the winter season because of slippery, wet conditions. All other trails stay open, and DCR lists cross-country skiing.
The Hike
How long is the Purgatory Chasm trail?
The Chasm Loop Trail is about 0.5 mile, blue-blazed, on DCR's map. The park has six trails, the longest being Charley's Loop at 1.0 mile.
Is Purgatory Chasm hard?
DCR rates the chasm hike moderate. It's short, but the first few hundred feet are a scramble over boulders, and the rock is slippery when wet. Wear rubber-soled shoes or boots.
Can kids do Purgatory Chasm?
DCR aims its guided chasm hike at ages 8 and up, with an adult. Younger kids can use the playground, the paved Spring Path and DCR's free programs for ages 4 and up.
How wide is Fat Man's Misery?
About 1.5 feet wide and 20 feet deep, per DCR. The smaller Devil's Corn Crib is the easier alternative.
What happened to the Devil's Pulpit?
The upright stone that 19th-century visitors used as a speaking platform tipped over in 1994. It now lies on the ground with an alcove behind it.
Rules and Safety
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash, per DCR's map. Think about whether your dog can handle the boulder scramble in the chasm.
Can you rock climb at Purgatory Chasm?
DCR lists rock climbing as an activity, with rules: keep clear of the edges and don't climb during or after bad weather. Roped climbing is allowed only in areas DCR designates.
Has anyone died at Purgatory Chasm?
DCR records the chasm's first known fatality in 1876, when a visitor fell about 70 feet from the rim at Lover's Leap. Keep clear of the edges.
Can you bring alcohol or bikes?
No. DCR's trail map lists alcoholic beverages, open fires, and bicycles, scooters and skateboards among the things not allowed.
Is there a playground and restrooms?
Yes. DCR lists a playground, restrooms (including accessible restrooms), picnic areas with grilling and a visitors center.
More detail: parking, hours,the chasm hike, rock formations,rules and safety.
