Ultimate Guide to Dungeon Rock Cave, Massachusetts (Tours, Pricing, History, Map)
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Dungeon Rock is an iconic formation in Lynn in Massachusetts, and its main attraction is Dungeon Rock Cave wherein a pirate was reportedly buried alive along with the treasure during an earthquake in 1658. The cave has a fascinating history about its origin, and this secluded cave in Massachusetts can be reached through a hike in Lynn Woods Reservation.
Dungeon Rock Cave, Massachusetts
A long time ago, it was widely believed that Dungeon Rock used to hold lots of treasures of an unfortunate pirate. A lot of efforts were made to dig out the treasure, but it was never found. This cave is an interesting site, and if you are in Massachusetts, you must visit this place.
History of Dungeon Rock Cave
There is an interesting story that tells us about the origin of the the cave. We need to go back to the mid-1600s when a pirate named Thomas Veale supposedly hid in the cave with his loot. He lived there for some time, but an earthquake occurred, killing him and destroying the cave. The formation was initially known as Pirate’s Dungeon, but it came to be known as Dungeon Rock over the years.
The place was bought by a man named Hiram Marble in 1852. He erected a house, moved his wife and son here, and then excavated a new cave to look for treasure. Marble was a spiritual man, and he always believed that he was receiving instructions to unearth from the ghost of Thomas Veale himself. He held seances to get the digging directions. Then he and his son, Edwin, would carry out the ‘instructions’ with dynamite and tools.
They continued to dig until their deaths, but the treasure was never found. In 1881, the city bought the land where Dungeon Rock is located, and it was made a part of the 2200 acre Lynn Woods Reservation. The cave they dug still exists today, but it is now guarded by an iron door that is kept locked when visitors are not around.
Geological Cave Formations
There are no geological formations in the this cave.
Wildlife
The tunnel is fully closed with a large iron door at night, which means there are no raccoons or bats inside. You will not spot any spiders even!
Is Dungeon Rock Cave Haunted?
Dungeon Rock Cave has a curious history and an equally disturbing reputation. If you are afraid of ghost tales or get scared in the dark easily, this cave is not for you. Dungeon Rock has been a hotbed for supernatural activities for hundreds of years.
People say that the trapped spirit of Thomas Veal howls for help from within the cave, and people have often heard the clanging of pickaxes and shovels in the woods after dark. Some people have even reported seeing a phantom in a red robe stalking among the trees, but it is not clear whether this apparition s related to the known history of the cave or linked to an earlier time.
How Big is Dungeon Rock Cave?
It is a 135 ft deep cave.
Dungeon Rock Cave Tours
The cave is guarded by an iron gate which is open for a few hours during the warm season and on request to the local park rangers. The door can be found placed within the rock crevice. If you want to explore the cave, you must carry a flashlight. The inside of the cave is dark, wet, and cold.
Narrow wooden steps will lead you to the cavern floor, which eventually turns an astonishing 135 ft into the rock. Eventually, it becomes too small even to stand up, ending in a stagnant pool of water. If you are going inside the cave with your kids, you should tell them to hold onto the railing as the floor becomes very slippery.
Tour Prices and Discounts
There are no charges involved for entering this cave. It is a free attraction.
Is Dungeon Rock Cold?
Irrespective of the outside temperature, the tunnel is so cold that you may even see your breath!
What to Wear?
All visitors to the cave must carry flashlights with them as the inside of the cave is very dark. Since the cavern floor is a bit slippery, it is a good idea to wear a pair of comfortable shoes with anti-skid soles and a good grip.
Dungeon Rock Cave Hours
Tuesday to Saturday – 9 am to 2:30 pm.
What To Do (Beside Tours)
There are a few places nearby where you can spend some quality time. Breakheart Reservation, for example, can be visited in summer and you can enjoy a nice swim in the pond. If you are hungry, you can come down to Walnut Street in Lynn, which has some of the best pizza places and convenience shops in this region.
Best Time to Visit
Dungeon Rock Cave is best visited in summer.
How to Get to Dungeon Rock Cave
To get to Dungeon Rock Cave, you need to start from the main entrance at Pennybrook Lane and take Jackson Path. You need to follow the signs which will lead you to the cave.
Hotels Nearby
There are a few quality hotels near Dungeon Rock Cave, such as Holiday Inn Express and Easy Room.
Dungeon Rock Cave Fun Facts
- Remnants of the building made by Hiram Marble still exist today, including a wall fragment.
- The cave is on a hill and is accessible by a path.
Dungeon Rock Cave Details
- Length: It has a depth of 135 ft.
- Time Recommended: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Kid-friendly: Yes
- Dog-friendly: Yes
- Fees: Free
- Hours: 9 am to 2:30 pm
Visiting Dungeon Rock Cave
Do you need more information before visiting Dungeon Rock Cave? Call (781) 593-7773 for an information packet.
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