Posted in Massachusetts by Emily

Hike Through Fascinating Remnants Of The Ice Age On Charley’s Loop Trail In Massachusetts

If you’re an avid Massachusetts hiker, you’ve probably been to Purgatory Chasm State Park. This beautiful reservation is a unique national landmark, and within it is a short but sweet trail called Charley’s Loop Trail. This area dates back to the Ice Age, and legend has it that glaciers left behind some of these beautiful rock formations that you’ll find throughout the trail. While this hike won’t take too much out of you, it’ll take you through some of the most interesting, ancient rock formations in our state. Head over to Sutton to find Charley’s Loop Trail, an incredible trail within Purgatory Chasm State Reservation.

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Welcome to Charley's Loop Trail! Christopher LeBlanc/AllTrails This 1.7-mile loop hike is located in Purgatory Chasm State Reservation. While this trail isn't too long, it can be quite strenuous at times, so make sure to wear proper hiking gear. Christopher LeBlanc/AllTrails Purgatory Chasm in Sutton is an incredibly unique Massachusetts landmark. This reservation is filled with interesting rock formations that are said to date back 14,000 years to the Ice Age. May Luo/AllTrails As you hike upon this trail, you'll find many rock formations including the one and only Purgatory Chasm. This quarter-mile long formation runs as high as 70 feet. Steve Kuras/AllTrails There are plenty of other rock formations throughout the area, too, and they all have sweet names like Lover's Leap, Fat Man's Misery, and so much more. Anthony D/AllTrails There's simply nothing like hiking upon remnants of the Ice Age, and the surrounding nature is breathtaking. Chad Louthan/AllTrails As there are many different rocks and boulders to climb upon, please wear proper hiking shoes. Mark Jodoin/AllTrails If you're looking for a breathtaking hike in Sutton, Charley's Loop Trail is one of the best hikes in Purgatory Chasm State Reservation. Roger Barthelet/AllTrails For more information on Purgatory Chasm State Reservation, click here

Have you ever taken Charley’s Loop Trail within Purgatory Chasm? How cool were the ancient rock formations? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments, and don’t forget to then go share photos from your Massachusetts outdoor adventures with us in our Massachusetts Nature Lovers group on Facebook, or by tagging us at #onlyinmassachusetts on Instagram for a chance to be featured!