Purgatory Chasm

8/10 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊Mommy Approved Smiling Faces

198 Purgatory Rd

Sutton, MA 01590

https://www.mass.gov/locations/purgatory-chasm-state-reservation

(508)234-3733

The kids and I really enjoyed our time at Purgatory Chasm. We spent time playing on the playground, exploring the trails and rock climbing. The coolest thing about Purgatory Chasm in our opinion, was sliding down the steep rocks. It was a definite highlight for us.

Because we visited at the tail end of winter / early spring, the chasm was “closed” and not recommended to hike through due to ice on the rocks. Despite this closure, everyone was still hiking the area. We went down to investigate but 1 momma, 2 kids and icy rocks is probably a bad choice so instead of traveling through the chasm, we walked the trails around it and climbed the higher ground around and above it which made for a great overlook.

So many families were out with their kids and dogs enjoying the park.  Because we arrived early, we found ample parking and not too many people on the trails.  Around 1ish, it was a different story with barely any parking spaces to find.  I bet in the heat of summer, this place is packed so I would say carpool if possible and come early or at least not at the peak of the day when everyone else would want to also be out.  

 

The Skinny:

• Weather :  The location is completely outside so you will want to have comfortable weather.
• Pricing & Admissions :  There is a charge to park from Memorial Day to November only see below
• Location : This is a state reservation with hiking trails, picnicking, grilling, a playground and some easy rock climbing available.  It is a great, outdoor recreational area for the entire family.
• Parking : Daily parking fee charged Memorial Day weekend through November         MA resident  $5, Non-MA resident  $20
• Hours : sunrise to sunset daily
• Duration : We stayed about 3 hours here exploring, sliding down the rock and playing on the playground
• Tips and Recommendations :  Bring some clothes you don’t care about of that are durable because the rock sliding has been known to put holes in my kids’ clothes.  Visit West End Creamery while here.  It is close and so good.  It also has it’s own activities offered in various seasons.
• Cons : It got pretty packed on the weekend day we visited in Spring during COVID.  I am not sure how it normally is but parking by the chasm was scarce mid-day.  I would recommend car-pooling and arriving off peak-times.  

Jewel Approved 👍🏼

Jamison Approved 👍🏼

 

 We hope you love Purgatory Chasm.  It can either be a thrilling day or a lazy, outdoor day of relaxation depending on what you are in the mood for.  Let us know your thoughts by commenting below.  While in this area do check out our favorite zoo, Southwick’ Zoo that isn’t too far away.