Massachusetts may not be known for towering mountains like the Rockies, but it is home to remarkable rock formations shaped by ancient geology and glacial activity. Here are ten amazing rock formations and scenic hikes that make every mile of rough driving or trekking absolutely worthwhile:
1. Purgatory Chasm (Sutton)
A dramatic quarter-mile-long chasm with granite walls rising up to 70 feet, featuring unique rock formations such as The Corn Crib, The Coffin, and Lovers’ Leap. The Chasm Loop Trail is a family-friendly hike through this geological wonder.
2. Mount Greylock Summit Rocks (Adams)
As Massachusetts’ highest peak, Mount Greylock offers panoramic views and rugged trails. The summit features exposed bedrock and rocky outcrops, rewarding hikers with a sense of wilderness and expansive vistas.
3. Cheshire Cobbles (Cheshire)
Along a steep section of the Appalachian Trail, Cheshire Cobbles features striking rock formations and sweeping views of the Berkshires and Mount Greylock. The hike is short but challenging, with a waterfall at the start for added beauty.
4. Lookout Rock (Littleton)
Accessible via a short, steep trail, Lookout Rock offers views of the Boston skyline and rests on 900-million-year-old bedrock from the Grenville orogeny. The site is a favorite for geology enthusiasts and hikers alike.
5. Devil’s Football (Hadley, Mount Holyoke)
A massive basalt boulder left by glaciers, Devil’s Football is a highlight of the hike up Mount Holyoke in Skinner State Park. It’s a popular scramble and a geological curiosity.
6. Balance Rock (Princeton, Mount Wachusett)
Found along the Mount Wachusett Loop, Balance Rock is a glacial erratic perched precariously on a ledge, offering a striking photo opportunity and a sense of wonder for hikers.
7. Boojum Rock (Melrose, Middlesex Fells Reservation)
Located on the Rock Circuit Trail, Boojum Rock provides sweeping views of Boston and features rocky terrain and unique stone outcroppings.
8. The Corn Crib (Purgatory Chasm, Sutton)
One of the iconic formations within Purgatory Chasm, The Corn Crib is a tight, cave-like passage between massive granite slabs—perfect for adventurous explorers.
9. The Coffin (Purgatory Chasm, Sutton)
Another standout in Purgatory Chasm, The Coffin is a narrow, coffin-shaped crevice carved into the granite, offering a unique challenge for those who dare to squeeze through.
10. Lovers’ Leap (Purgatory Chasm, Sutton)
Named for its romantic legend and dramatic drop, Lovers’ Leap is a scenic overlook within Purgatory Chasm, providing both beauty and a sense of adventure.
These formations, each with its own story and geological history, make Massachusetts a hidden gem for rock lovers and hikers—especially if you enjoy unique landscapes and scenic challenges.
Sources:
1. https://www.letsroam.com/explorer/hiking-trails-in-ma/
2. https://earlybirdonthetrail.com/best-hikes-in-the-berkshires/
3. https://earlybirdonthetrail.com/cheshire-cobbles-hike-massachusetts/
