Astray Fish

Purgatory Chasm State Reservation is a unique park known for it’s sizable rock formations. There you can hike through a natural canyon and explore small caves. It is located in the Blackstone Valley in Central Massachusetts, and is great way to spend an afternoon.

Download the trail map here: https://www.mass.gov/locations/purgatory-chasm-state-reservation

There are multiple trails throughout the park, but by far the most traveled is the Chasm Loop Trail. It is only 0.5 miles long and takes your through the center of the Chasm. You will walk through a narrow passage with rock cliffs soaring up to 70 feet above on each side.

Within the chasm are a few depressions, caves, and fissures to explore. The brave can sneak inside some of them, such as the Devil’s Coffin (pictured below).

After you finish exploring the Chasm, head left. Then go up and out of the ravine on the Chasm Loop Trail.

This part of the trail skirts along the edge of the Chasm. There are a few overlook spots to look down into the chasm from above. The fall here risk is real, keep little ones close and away from edges.

There are a few other trails. They take you through the rest of the forested park. These trails are less traveled and less crowded.

If the kids haven’t had enough climbing, there is a sizable playground near the Visitor’s Center with some interesting play structures.

After Park:

To end the day, consider visiting the Shops at Blackstone Valley. It is only 11 minutes away by car. A collection of stores, it also has an impressive large movie theatre Cinema de Lux. For convenience, there are a few major chain restaurants there as well (our kids love Red Robin). The Shops at Blackstone Valley

Tips for a successful visit:

The park is well known and visited, try to plan around peak times to avoid crowds.

The rocks can be slippery. The park is best visited after a few days of dry weather.

Well fitting shoes are a must (NO flip flops).

I was able to use a baby hiker backpack for most of the trail. However there were a few times it wasn’t safe to wear while climbing up and down. We had to instead hand her back and forth for safety. In other words, I suggest 2 adults for every child that needs to be carried.

Bring a picnic lunch, there is a pavilion and many tables scattered about towards the Visitor’s Center.

Bring water with you along the way. Consider letting kids start carrying their own water with this small backpack. It is comfy. You can even remove the plastic bladder and replace it with your favorite water bottle and snacks. It is our favorite and kids don’t mind wearing it! CamelBak Mini M.U.L.E. kids Backpack (#ad)

The Chasm Loop Trail is closed in the winter.

$5 for Massachusetts plates, $20 for out of state plates.

Purgatory Chasm is a surprisingly unique and fun day trip in the heart of Central Massachusetts. Let me know if you love it!

kit@astrayfish.com

Unless otherwise stated, all photos throughout this blog are my own and cannot be printed or distributed without my permission.