Sunderland Caves, Sunderland MA

• 4-star hike
• 2 mile out-and-back
• Easy | Gain 490 feet
• Sunderland, MA | Pioneer Valley
.

The image shows an individual wearing a red top and dark pants standing in front of a large rock formation. The rock formation consists of several massive boulders with visible cracks and crevices, some large enough to walk through. The ground is covered with fallen leaves, indicating it might be autumn.

The lower entrance to Sunderland Caves.

An easy woodland stroll within the foothills of Mount Toby leads explorers to the cool, dry environs of the Sunderland Caves. This is a great short hike for a family outing or a curious destination at the end of a pleasant hike.

From the trailhead and parking area on Reservation Road follow the signs to the caves that lead to the Robert Frost Trail. Expect to find an easy trail with gentle inclines and only the occasional rocks and roots to negotiate. Around the half-way point you'll join the blue-blazes of the caves trail that will lead you the rest of the way.

There are two entrances to what is a single cave, though only the most slender of explorers will be able to negotiate their way from one end to another. We've shown on our map the easiest route to reach the bottom entrance of the cave, which includes one moderately steep section.

Trail Options Expand KML · Google Earth ·

⬤ 4★ Sunderland Caves Route 2.4 mi out & back, easy, gain 490 ft
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX?

Other informal trails exist, including a short, steep section that links the two entrances and requires a little rock-scrambling. The second informal trail traces a route along the base of the rocky crags, and can be connected back to the main trail with a short amount of bushwhacking.

The Subway Caves are moderately easy to access and with a little caution should be safe for all ages to explore, subject to some supervision. Though you'll be able to see daylight from within the caves at all times, it would still be favorable to bring a headlamp or flashlight with you on your trip.

The image shows a person wearing a red shirt walking on a leaf-covered path in a forest. The trees have yellow and green leaves, indicating it might be autumn. There is also a triangular wooden sign attached to one of the trees on the right side of the path.

Heading to the caves on the Robert Frost Trail.

The image depicts a dimly lit underground space, possibly a cave or tunnel, illuminated by a flare or torch. The light source casts a warm glow on the rough, textured walls and reveals a wooden crate on the ground to the left. The perspective suggests the photograph was taken from someone’s point of view, as part of a hand holding the flare is visible in the lower right corner.

Is that undiscovered booty?

The image shows a forest scene during autumn with a person standing to the left, looking at a large, deep fissure or crevice in the ground. The trees have leaves in various shades of yellow, orange, and green, indicating the season. The ground is covered with fallen leaves, and there are two fallen trees across the crevice.

Exploring other large rock fractures around the cave.

The image shows a triangular yellow sign with red borders and text, nailed to a tree trunk. The sign reads “TO CAVES 1.8” in red, with an arrow pointing to the right, indicating the direction and distance to caves. The background reveals a forest setting with trees displaying autumn foliage in shades of yellow and orange.

Watch out for the tree-mounted signs to the caves.

Tangents:
• AllTrails Public: Sunderland Caves
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us

Trailspotting Nearby
4★ Mount Toby & Fire Tower (3 mi) · 4★ Mount Sugarloaf (2-4 mi) · Show Map

New England Fire Towers
Discover our map of fire towers and the trails to find them.

Rail Trails of New England
The first and only complete rail trail map. With photos, reviews and downloads.