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Purgatory Chasm State Reservation

Purgatory Chasm

 

Purgatory Rd., Sutton
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
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation is located in the south-eastern part of central Massachusetts.


From the east & west: Take Mass Pike (I-90) to Exit 10A, then Rte. 146 south to exit 6 (Purgatory Road exit).  Take right at end of ramp onto Purgatory Road.  Follow short distance to Visitors’ Center on the right.  


From the north and south: Take Rte. 495 to Mass Pike, head west on Mass Pike to Exit 10A, take Rte. 146 south to exit 6 (Purgatory Road exit).  Take right at end of ramp onto Purgatory Road. Follow short distance to Visitors’ Center on the right.


Alternate route from the north:  Take Rte. I90 south to Rte. 290 south into Worcester; take Exit 12 at Brosnihan Square onto Rt. 146 -Millbury Street; head south on Rte. 146 to exit 6 (Purgatory Road exit).  Take right at end of ramp onto Purgatory Road. Follow short distance to Visitors’ Center on the 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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