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Purgatory Chasm State Reservation

Purgatory Chasm

 

198 Purgatory Rd.

Sutton MA 01590
508 234-3733

 

 

A unique natural landmark, Purgatory Chasm runs for a quarter of a mile between granite walls rising as high as 70 feet. Popular with picnickers and rock-climbers alike, the Chasm is believed to have its origin in the sudden release of dammed-up glacial meltwater near the end of the last Ice Age, approximately 14,000 years ago.

Trails lead to a wide variety of rock formations, with such romantic names as The Corn Crib, The Coffin, The Pulpit, Lovers' Leap and Fat Man's Misery.

Trail Map
View on screen | Download printable version (pdf)

Park Directions

The reservation is located off of Rte 146 in south central Massachusetts.

 
From the East/West/Boston/Southeast:

  • Take MASS PIKE (Rte. I-90) to exit #10A in Millbury, rte 146 South.
  • Take Rte 146 South to exit # 6 in Sutton, Purgatory Rd.
  • Take a right onto Purgatory Rd. 
  • Reservation entrance & visitor center is ¼ mile on your right.

 

From Northeast/Worcester:

  • Take Rte 495 to Rte 290 West towards Worcester.
  • Take exit #12 and follow Rte 146S to Exit #6 in Sutton.
  • Take a right onto Purgatory Rd., following signs. 
  • Reservation entrance & visitor center is ¼ mile on your right.

 

From Northwest:

  • Take Rte 2 East to exit #33 in Leominster, rte 190 south. 
  • Take Rte 190S to end, onto Rte 290 West in Worcester.
  • Follow Rte 290 West to exit #12, Rte 146 south.
  • Follow Rte 146S to Exit #6 in Sutton, Purgatory Rd.
  • Take a right onto Purgatory Rd., following signs. 
  • Reservation entrance & visitor center is ¼ mile on your right.


 


  
Accessible Restrooms
Hiking
Hunting (Restrictions)
Interpretive Program
Picnicking
Scenic Viewing Area
Skiing (Cross-Country)
Visitors Center
Walking Trails

Blackstone River and Canal Heritage State Park
Douglas State Forest

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