Plan Your Visit
To plan a visit to Purgatory Chasm: go on a dry day, wear rubber-soled shoes or boots, allow at least an hour for the half-mile chasm loop, and expect a $5 (Massachusetts plates) or $20 (other plates) parking fee from May 9 to October 26. The park, at 198 Purgatory Road in Sutton, is open sunrise to sunset every day. In winter DCR closes the Chasm Trail, but the other trails stay open.
Visit at a Glance
What Visitors Should Know Before Going
- The chasm hike is short but rough. DCR rates it moderate because the first few hundred feet are a scramble over boulders. Hike guide.
- Wet rock is the main hazard. DCR says to avoid the chasm during or soon after rain. Safety.
- Keep clear of the edges. DCR records a fatal fall from the rim in 1876.
- It's carry-in, carry-out. Bring a bag for your trash.
- There's a different Purgatory Chasm in Middletown, Rhode Island. Set your GPS to Sutton, MA.
Best Time to Go
Searches for Purgatory Chasm peak in August, so plan on summer being the busy season. A dry day is the safest time on the rocks; DCR says to avoid the chasm during or soon after rain. In winter the chasm is closed, but the woods trails are open and DCR lists cross-country skiing.
How Long to Spend
DCR schedules its guided chasm hike for an hour. Add time for Charley's Loop (1 mile) or Little Purgatory, a picnic and the playground, and a half-day is easy to fill. All six trails are on the trails page.
Facilities
- Restrooms, including accessible restrooms (DCR).
- Visitors center (hours not posted; call ahead).
- Playground and playing field.
- Picnic areas with grilling, and a pavilion at the chasm entrance.
- A paved, accessible path: the Spring Path.
Accessibility
DCR marks the reservation wheelchair accessible and lists accessible restrooms. The chasm itself is a boulder scramble and is not accessible, but DCR's Spring Path is a paved, accessible quarter-mile from the visitors center past the Old Spring House. For program accommodations, DCR's flyer lists 617-645-0358.
Your Checklist
- Check the weather for today and yesterday.
- Download DCR's trail map and the self-guided hike sheet (trail map page).
- Pack sturdy shoes, water, snacks and a trash bag.
- Bring a leash if your dog is coming.
- Save the park office number: (508) 234-3733.
Planning FAQ
Is Purgatory Chasm worth visiting?
If you like scrambling over rocks, yes. It's a half-mile loop through a boulder-filled chasm with walls DCR puts at up to 70 feet, plus picnic areas, a playground and free DCR programs. Go on a dry day.
How much time do you need at Purgatory Chasm?
At least an hour for the chasm loop; DCR schedules its guided chasm hike for one hour. Add the other short trails, a picnic and the playground for a half-day.
Is Purgatory Chasm wheelchair accessible?
The chasm is not; it's a boulder scramble. DCR's Spring Path is a paved, accessible quarter-mile path from the visitors center, and the park has accessible restrooms.