Rhode Island’s shoreline is full of diversity. From sandy beaches to rocky cliff faces, you could spend an entire year exploring the coast before you see it all. While Newport’s Cliff Walk reigns supreme in drawing tourists to the waterfront, there is a lesser-known geological wonder hiding in the town right next door. Travel off the beaten path, to view this underrated natural attraction.

Visible from Second Beach in Middletown is Purgatory Chasm, a giant fissure in the nearby rock face. You don't have admire this geological wonder from a distance, you can stand right overtop this unique attraction.
Google Images/Gerard Houle
A short 100-yard trail takes you to the top of Purgatory Chasm. Glaciers formed the fissure in the rock thousands of years ago and the tumbling seawater has been making the crack wider and deeper ever since.
Google Images/Alexander Lee
Step onto the footbridge and you can see the chasm beneath your feet. The fissure is 150 feet deep, 120 feet long, and 10 feet wide.
Google Images/Isabell Lepage
The waters of the Sachuest Bay swirl in and out of the deep crevice with the tides.
Google Images/glen wirt

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Journey to the trail end and you will emerge on the shoreline. Take a walk across the rock to take a look inside Purgatory Chasm.
Google Images/Andrew Davis
The view from over top can be quite dizzying. The sheer vertical drop of the fissure is astounding. Although some have climbed down the rock face to swim into the chasm, this activity can be dangerous and is not recommended.
Google Images/Evan G
You'll also want to soak in the expansive views of the bay. You'll often see surfers bobbing in the water off the shore of Second Beach.
Google Images/Keith Cavanaugh
You can make a visit to Purgatory Chasm into an adventure-filled day trip. Stop by the nearby Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, Second Beach or Third Beach.
Google Maps
Visit Purgatory Chasm on Tuckerman Avenue in Middletown just after the junction with Purgatory Road. Click here to view the map.

Have you ever visited Purgatory Chasm? Not only is this magnificent geological wonder located in Middletown, but you’ll also find one of the most peaceful and scenic hikes in the state.

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