Rhode Island may be a small state, but it’s big on natural beauty. And if you’re looking for a place that’s slightly off-the-beaten path but just as beautiful as some of New England’s top attractions, look no further than Purgatory Chasm in Middletown. This wonderful geological feature deserves to be discovered.

Purgatory Chasm lies on the shores of Middletown, which is a short drive from Newport.

winkibat / TripAdvisor This is not a state park, just a small but stunning natural area.

You’ll only need to take a brief 1,000 yard walk to reach this beauty.

winkibat / TripAdvisor Soon you’ll find yourself near the rocky cliffs.

Glaciers formed Purgatory Chasm thousands of years ago, and seawater has been eroding the area ever since.

AhearnO / TripAdvisor But don’t worry, you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy it.

The chasm itself is 120 feet long, 10 feet wide at the top, and over 150 feet deep.

Takemetoalaska / TripAdvisor A pedestrian bridge allows you a glimpse from over the top.

There are a few other paths in the area, making this a perfect place for a nice, relaxing nature walk.

Maura W / TripAdvisor If you choose to explore the paths, however, use caution near the edges.

From the tops of the cliffs, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of Second Beach.

Kri G / TripAdvisor On a good day, you’ll be able to spot plenty of surfers in the water.

Purgatory Chasm is a fantastic natural wonder.

Maura W / TripAdvisor It’s also open to visitors, so check it out the next time you need to be near nature.

Many (many) years ago it was possible to jump across the chasm, but those days are long gone — it expands bit by bit every year. Have you ever been to Purgatory Chasm?

winkibat / TripAdvisor

This is not a state park, just a small but stunning natural area.

Soon you’ll find yourself near the rocky cliffs.

AhearnO / TripAdvisor

But don’t worry, you’ve got plenty of time to enjoy it.

Takemetoalaska / TripAdvisor

A pedestrian bridge allows you a glimpse from over the top.

Maura W / TripAdvisor

If you choose to explore the paths, however, use caution near the edges.

Kri G / TripAdvisor

On a good day, you’ll be able to spot plenty of surfers in the water.

It’s also open to visitors, so check it out the next time you need to be near nature.

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Address: Tuckerman Avenue, Tuckerman Ave, Middletown, RI 02842, USA