Purgatory Chasm is as geologically intriguing as it sounds–a shady quarter mile of rift between tall granite walls attracts hikers and climbers alike. For this
1-mile
hike, you can park at the Purgatory Chasm Visitor Center.
Due to slippery, wet conditions,
the Chasm Trail will be closed during the winter season
. All other trails remain open for the public to utilize.
Does it cost money to go to Purgatory Chasm?
DCR received just 16 public comments on the proposal. Parking fees for a car at “scenic and historic areas,” such as Purgatory Chasm, are
$5 per day for Massachusetts residents and $6 for out-of-state vehicles
.
Does anyone rock climb at Purgatory Chasm?
There actually is a long history of climbing at Purgatory
. It is the very first place I roped up – ~45 years ago. The climbs are mostly short but the rock is good for the most part and there are some good problems. The legalities of climbing there change from year to year.
Can you swim in Purgatory Falls?
This is a very popular area for birding, hiking, and trail running, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash. The first of the three falls is only a 10 minute hike and
great for swimming
.
How old is Purgatory Chasm?
About Purgatory Chasm State Reservation
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
.
Can dogs go to Purgatory Chasm?
Please stay away from the edges of the chasm. It is not recommended to hike the chasm after or during inclement weather due to extremely slippery rocks.
Well behaved dogs are welcome, but must be leashed at all times
. Or call (508) 234-3733 for more information.
What type of rock is Purgatory Chasm?
Purgatory Chasm is the result of weathering of closely-spaced, quartz filled, ‘joints’ that may mark edges of large rectangular-shaped boudins. In essence it is
a deep glacial cleft carved into the earth that you can walk through
.
How deep is Purgatory Chasm?
25-mile-long (400 m),
70-foot-deep (21 m)
chasm of granite bedrock with abrupt precipices and boulder caves where ice lingers into the early summer. It is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Is Purgatory Chasm safe?
“Purgatory Chasm is a bold and unique landscape,” the trailhead marker says. “
Hikers beware of the dangers of this trail: slippery and deceiving rocks
. The trail is one-half mile long and climbing is involved. Hikers should be physically fit.
Is Purgatory Chasm free?
Purgatory Chasm is located off of Route 146, exit 6 in South Central MA. The entrance will be 1,000 feet away on the right. Parking is generous, though I recommend visiting on weekdays— there’s half as many people.
MA plates are charged $5 to park, out of state are charged $6
.
Where is Purgatory Chasm in Rhode Island?
The natural wonder lies
on the shores of Middletown, just a short drive from Newport
. Take a brief 100 yard walk to reach this incredible sight. Walk out onto the cliff top, but watch your step, it’s very rocky here.
Can you park overnight at Purgatory?
Overnight RV Camping
Permitted in the Lower Columbine parking lot
.
Is Purgatory Chasm good for kids?
Purgatory Chasm State Reservation – Kids Outdoors.
Purgatory Chasm offers adventure and challenges kids will love to tackle, from climbing giant boulders to peering into dark caves
. Kids will want to climb the giant boulders and explore the small caves at Purgatory Chasm.
