PARKS & TRAILS in Greenfield

Directions to the Park >>

Location Montague City Road

Acreage 7

Map / Lot 4 / 6

Legal Reference N/A

Use Restriction: None

Historical Information

The Franklin County Registry of Deeds did not provide legal documentation for Abercrombie Field. However, according to the deed of the abutting former town golf course dated may 1928, Abercrombie Field is recorded in Plan Book 6 page 97.

Description

Abercrombie Field is located on Montague City Road behind the Greenfield Center School. The parks 11.42 acres contain a small field used mainly by the Greenfield Center School, a baseball diamond, and parking for approximately 35 automobiles. The parks amenities include a concession stand restrooms and picnic tables. Major use of the land is given to the baseball diamond which the Babe Ruth Youth Baseball Association of Greenfield is given exclusive control of the ball field. The field is available for scheduled use for other events that must be done through the recreation department. The lease agreement with the BabeRuth Baseball Association is renewed each season upon signed contract from town officials. A full park inventory and assessment is listed below.

Baseball Diamond 90ft (1)

The baseball diamond is a 90 foot base length with a 295 foot left field and 291 foot right field. It is a fully fenced in facility with covered dugouts, infield turf, and an electronic scoreboard. The playing surface is well maintained and healthy turf is maintained on the infield and outfield. Additionally, the fence and backstop appear to be maintained and are in good condition. Abutting the outside of the back stop is small utility shed used for tools and maintenance equipment supplied by the baseball association. Beyond the fenced baseball diamond, moveable bleacher structures exist along the first and third baselines. Though the City of Greenfield owns the property, the baseball diamond is managed and maintained by the Babe Ruth Baseball Association. A full inventory of Babe Ruth owned equipment present on the baseball grounds was not done. The lease agreement with the Babe Ruth Baseball Association specifies that the property is to remain open to citizens of Greenfield and specifies issues regarding upgrades and removal to park premises.

Concession Stand (1)

A concession stand is located on the premises near the backstop of the baseball diamond. It operates in conjunction with the baseball association schedule.

Picnic Tables (7)

There are a total of seven picnic tables on the premises of Abercrombie Field. They are mainly oriented around the concession stand and the ball diamond backstop. They are moveable and are accessible to users of Abercrombie Field at all times.

Ski Jump (former) (1)

The south end of the Abercrombie Field property is occupied by a former ski jump. The jump structure no longer exists, but a small structure for viewing and announcing still stands. The bare slope was most recently used a few times a year by the New England Hillclimbers Association for all- terrain-vehicle events.

Shared Field

An open field oriented on the south side of the entrance drive is part of the Abercrombie Field Parcel. Its dimensions limit the opportunities for full field recreation, but it is utilized by the Greenfield Center School. A field hockey or lacrosse sized goal structure exists on the field area. This section of Abercrombie Field is used by the Greenfield Center School per a lease agreement on file with the Department of Public Works.

Directions to the Park >>

Location Beacon, Gerrett, and Sanderson Streets

Acreage 7

Map / Lot 79 / 6

Legal Reference 685 / 254

Use Restriction: None

Historical Information

Beacon Field was acquired by the City of Greenfield in April 1923 for one dollar from Fredrick and Francis Wells.

Description

Beacon Field is located in one of Greenfield’s densely populated residential neighborhoods slightly east and north of the center of Greenfield. Bordered to the east by Rocky Mountain Park and directly below the popular Poet’s Seat Tower, Beacon Field is used all year around. In addition to its location and variety of facilities, this park is used for town wide events such as the Winter Carnival, Independence Day Festivities, and seasonal recreation. The Beacon Field property also includes an adjacent open lot on the west side of Gerrett Street. A complete inventory of Beacon Field is below. Gerrett Street Lot Acreage 23,000ft2 Map / Lot 079-7 Legal Reference N/A Located on the West side of Gerrett Street is a town owned property that is considered to be part of Beacon Field. It is currently an open grass area with a few mature trees. The Gerrett Street parcel is an idle piece of property.

Soccer Field (1)

Beacon Field features a soccer field that is used by the Greenfield Middle School and neighborhood residents.

Baseball Diamond (1)

Located on the far side of the park, the diamond is scheduled for use from April to November 1st by the Babe Ruth Baseball Association.

Tennis Courts (5)

Located on the Sanderson Street side of Beacon Field are 5 clay surface tennis courts. The courts are lined and playable during the tennis season approximately May through October depending on weather conditions. The clay courts are maintained by the Department of Public Works that perform routine maintenance each year. During the off-season the fenced in tennis courts are locked to prevent damage to the saturated clay surface. When the tennis courts are opened for the season, surface finishing tools are provided at the courts to be used as needed by the participants. The courts are used for open play, adult co-ed singles leagues, and tennis lessons.

Tennis Backboard

An individual play tennis backboard is provided adjacent to the clay tennis courts. The backboard is made of concrete and the foot surface of the backboard area is asphalt. The backboard is lined to represent net height but no other tennis lines are present. The practice backboard area is not fenced in with the clay tennis courts and can be used at any time.

Bocce Courts (2)

In 2024, 2 Bocce Courts were installed on the Gerrett Street side of the park thanks to funding from the Capital Budget, Community Preservation Committee, and Disability Access Funding. The courts include scoreboards, mid-line and foul line markers, and ball holders. Bocce players must provide their own ball sets.

Sledding Hill

A former toboggan run is located on the eastern side of Beacon Field between the two parking lots. The lower portion of the toboggan run is currently used as a small sledding hill. Sledding is not considered a formal use of the area.

Playground

A youth play area is located on the Sanderson Street side of Beacon Field. It was recently renovated in the Spring of 2012 and features a Play Structure, Grasshopper Spring Rider, Climbing Rock, Swings, and benches.

Water Fountain (2)

There are two water fountains at the Beacon Field premises. They operate seasonally and are maintained by the DPW. They are located at either end of the park near Beacon and Sanderson Streets.

Access / Parking

Two gravel parking lots exist on the premises off Beacon Street and Sanderson Street. There is also a small gravel parking area along Sanderson Street in front of the tennis court area.

Greenfield Historic Walk

Scan the QR code on the Kiosk at the Beacon Playground or click the link below to take a guided tour through downtown Greenfield, highlighting important parts of Greenfield's history. Highlights include houses of people who made an impact on the town, important locations where fighting against slavery occurred, factories that fueled the town through WWII, and many more. This was an Eagle Scout Project by Sean Babineau. https://theclio.com/tour/2652 >>

Directions to the City Common >>

Virtual Crossroads Tree Tour that starts and stops on the City Common >>

Civil War Memorial
Public Gatherings
Farmers Market (Saturdays - Seasonal)

Directions to the Park >>

Location Davis Street

Acreage 3.4

Map / Lot 103 / 23

Legal Reference 519 / 359

Use Restriction: Park and Recreation

Historical Information

According to the deed listed above, Davis Tennis Park was part of the original acquisition of the Shattuck Park parcel. It was acquired in October 1906 for $9,000 from William Brown of Jacksonville, Vermont. It is the former land of George and Martha Shattuck and once called “Fair Farm.” The Davis Street Tennis Park Parcel shares the same legal reference but its property lines and assessor’s map reference are different. Further investigation of the legal boundaries of this park should be explored due to the use issues surrounding its facilities. The deed places use restrictions on this park to be used for park and recreation purposes.

Description

Davis Street Tennis Park is located at the intersection of Davis Street and Cleveland Street adjacent to Veterans Memorial Park. The Davis Street Tennis Park is situated in a residential area adjacent to the Greenfield Public High School.

Tennis Courts (4)

This park consists of 4 asphalt tennis courts which were completely renovated in 2010/2011, with two courts featuring quick start tennis lines for youth tennis. The nets are removed during the winter months and were not present at the time of inventory.

Softball Diamond (1)

A sixty foot softball diamond is located within Davis Tennis Park. According to the deed, this park should be open as a public park for civic use. It is currently off limits to the public and considered part of Veterans Memorial Field.

Access / Parking

The tennis park is serviced by an asphalt parking lot along Davis Street. The lot is marked for 21 automobile stalls. Its location makes it accessible to a densely populated and residential area.

Directions to the Park >>

Location 50 Miles Street

Acreage 1.25

Map / Lot 29/35D; 29/35E; 29/37; 29/35F

Legal Reference N/A

Energy Park	The Station
History and Description	Public Art
The Caboose	Concert Series

Use Restriction: None

Historical Information

Energy Park is Greenfield’s newest park property located in downtown Greenfield. The idea for a new park in Greenfield was outlined in The “Strategic Plan for Downtown Greenfield” in 1992. The development of the property was spearheaded by an agreement with the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA) and the City of Greenfield in 1994. In 1997 phase one of Energy Park was constructed and built. Located on the former Boston and Maine Railroad yard, the site was the home of the Greenfield Train Station that was demolished in the early 1960’s. The site was left idle for many years as an abandoned rail yard that changed ownership many times. The City of Greenfield obtained ownership of this property via an order of takings for unpaid taxes by the owners. The most recent property records can be found on file at the Recreation Department or following the legal reference numbers listed above.

Description

Energy Park is an innovative solution to an urban industrial site that harnesses town history and contemporary environmental issues into a multifunctional park property. The park is comprised of demonstrative sustainable energy exhibits, interpretive signage, herb and native plants garden, and a bandstand used for weekly music concerts. It hosts approximately 30 to 40 events a year ranging from festivals, concerts, play groups, and picnic lunches. During the summer months the park’s bandstand is booked on Sundays and Thursdays for concerts. This park is a well deserved arboretum for New England plants. Many trees and shrubs are labeled with descriptive placards throughout the park. A map with number index can be found at the main entrance information kiosk. A full inventory of Energy Park is listed below.

Interpretive Signage

Located in various points throughout the park, large descriptive signs highlight unique topics addressed in Energy Park or important to the City of Greenfield. The topics discussed are butterfly garden construction, the use of wind energy, and transportation and energy consumption.

Caboose

A Boston and Maine Railroad Caboose is located inside Energy Park and is used as a museum for educational programs and transportation demonstrations. It is open for tours during scheduled hours and programs available through NESEA.

Play Structure

A wooden replica of a steam engine train is located in the center of Energy Park. It is intended for toddler age children and is open as a play/ climbing structure. It has two cars and a caboose all of which are open at one end so the child can sit in the train cars.

Garden Demonstrations

Several garden exhibits can be found at Energy Park. The exhibits include gardens for herbs, wildflowers, native New England plants and many more. These gardens use nutrient material generated for the on site composting station.

Composting Station

A composting site is located inside the park and is used to amend the soil at the planting exhibits and as a natural fertilizer.

Solar Panels

Several solar panels are used throughout the site as a demonstration for energy production.

Bandstand

A bandstand is located inside the park and is used for seasonal concerts and functions. The structure was built to mimic the general shape and design of the former train station and be architecturally sensitive to the location and context of the park. The facility can be rented out through NESEA.

Stone Benches (7)

The stone benches in the park are engraved with supporter’s names and quotes.

Parking / Access

Parking is available in the parking lot at the terminus of Miles Street or in the town center. Pedestrian access is possible at the south end of the park along Deerfield Street.

Directions to the Park >>

Location 22 Petty Plain Road

Acreage 21

Map / Lot R 42/1; 17/27

Legal Reference N/A

Use Restriction: None

Historical Information

Green River Park was formerly the nursery area for Greenfield’s street tree program in the late 1920’s. This information was found in the Department of Public Works office in town meeting records. The deed places use restrictions on this land to be used for park and recreation purposes.

Description

Green River Park is located at the south end of Petty Plain Road along the Green River. Bound by the Green river to the East, a steep wooded slope to the west and a forested edge to the south, the park is a flat site that lies in the Green River Flood Plain. The west bank of the Green River that borders the park is densely vegetated denying views of or access to the Green River. A large part of this parcel is a forested area on the south end along the Green River. According to town records, lot 17/ 27 along the Green River is also part of the Green River Park.

Playground

Play structures
The updated playground features several play structures. The primary structure has 3 slides, including a tube slide, as well as climbing features and chimes. The park also includes a faux rock climbing structure with a miniature cargo net.

Swing structures
The park has one swing structure with a variety of differently sized swings, including toddler swings, child sized swings, and an ADA swing for park visitors with disabilities.

Park benches and Picnic Tables
Visitors will find three park benches surrounding the play area, as well as two picnic tables, all made of durable, weather resistant materials. Other benches are scattered throughout the park, beside the basketball court, within and around the dog park, and along walkways.

Pavilion
A newly constructed pavilion stands between the playground and the playing fields. A perfect space for waiting out a rainstorm or having a picnic in the shade, the pavilion is open to park visitors. Please contact the Rec Department for details on renting the space for private parties and functions.

Basketball Court
Green River Park has a full length court with an asphalt surface and regulation lining abutting the playground area.

Pickleball Court
Pickleball enthusiasts will find themselves at home on Green River Park’s new court. For those unfamiliar with the sport, it is a paddle sport which “combines many elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong,” according to the USA Pickleball Association. An easy game for beginners to learn, pickleball can become faster and more challenging based on the experience level of players.

Softball Diamond 60ft (2)
Each diamond is identical with a mixture of infield mix and playing gravel surface. Each has two small aluminum bleacher structures, fenced backstop, and open, unfenced outfield. The open outfield allows the field to be multi-use. The softball fields are used for football fields when the softball season is finished. They are used by a men’s adult flag football league scheduled through the recreation department.

Paws Park
Green River Park is home to Greenfield’s only dog park. Open in the fall of 2016, Paws Park is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication from volunteers, community members, and town officials. In the few short months since its opening, the park is already extremely popular with local dog owners.

With two enclosed areas open dawn to dusk, the dog park offers agility equipment and plenty of space for your dog to run and play with other dogs. The larger enclosure is a grassy area, and the second smaller enclosure has a rice stone surface.

Please familiarize yourself with the rules for use of the dog park, and be sure to keep your dog leashed when outside of the enclosure. Dogs must be 4 months old to use the dog park, and dogs over 6 months must be spayed or neutered. All dogs must be licensed and up to date on vaccinations. Please note that handlers must immediately remove dogs who behave aggressively towards other dogs or people, and they will be asked to leave the park if they do not do so voluntarily.

Directions to the Park >> Green River Swimming & Recreation Home Page

Location Nash’s Mill Road

Acreage 22

Map / Lot R 27/18, 19, 20, 21

Legal Reference 801/ 118; 766/ 12

Hours and Fees	Company Group Picnic Pakages
Park Pavillion Rentals

Use Restriction: None

Historical Information

The property for Green River Swimming and Recreation Park was acquired through two transactions. In June of 1929 and December of 1933 two parcels of land were granted to the Inhabitants of Greenfield by private ownership.

Description

The Green River Swimming area is one of the most widely used town parks in Greenfield. This property located west of the center of Greenfield is contiguous with Murphy Park and Nims Tree Farm. It is also linked to the center of Greenfield via the Riverside Community Path. Its unique and abundant recreation opportunities include an in stream swimming pool with sand beach toddler play area, athletic courts, concessions and picnic areas. The property is complete with open grass area and mature shade trees that add to its uniqueness. A complete inventory of the park is listed below.

Southside of Green River

Concession Area
(2) Bike racks
(7) Picnic Tables
(12) Park benches along the back side of the beach overlooking the water
Restrooms
Showers
Covered Pavilion with concrete floor
(6) picnic tables
Permanent grill
Playground Area
This area is fully enclosed by ornamental fence with two gates for entrance and exit. Playground has wood chip safety surfacing.
Picnic Tables (2)
Concrete Ping Pong Tables (2)
Concrete Cornhole Boards (2)
Basketball Hoop (1)
Play Structures (2)
Swing Structure (2)
Toddler Swings (4 individual swings)

Northside of Green River

The picnic area on the North side of the Green River is accessible via a pedestrian bridge across the river. The north side does not have a beach, but has water access via concrete stairs. This picnic area is a large plot of grass covered land and mature shade trees. There are approximately 35 picnic tables with a number designation for rental purposes.

Parking / Access

Parking is available in a gravel parking lot. The park is accessible by the Riverside Community Bike Path.

A Bit of History from 1936/1937 (Source: archive.com)

Works Progress Administration (W.P.A.) workers developed recreation improvements at Greenfield’s Green River Swimming and Recreation Area and Murphy Park, during the 1930s.

WPA Bulletin, 1936: Children of Greenfield have benefited by the WPA construction of a new bath house and other improvements at the Greenfield Swimming Pool. Tennis courts and a soft ball diamond were built in the adjoining public park property.

Bulletin, 1937: Greenfield – The crack of bats and the swish of girls’ skipping ropes are ushering in the sport season of the 33 acre WPA Recreation Center at the northern end of the city.

In three or four months’ time the full recreational facilities of the huge park will be taxed with sport lovers of all ages making use of the wading and swimming pools, baseball and softball diamonds, horseshoe pitching rings, picnic grounds and special play places for smaller children.

Additional WPA improvements to the park are now underway and will include the repairing of 135 yards of rip-rap, construction of 910 feet of masonry wall, building of 11 fireplaces, 13 picnic tables and three benches, the laying of gravel foot paths, the clearing of the wading and swimming pools, the construction of tar sidewalks, the landscaping of a large parking area and the painting of buildings and equipment.

Directions to the Reserve >> Griswold Stewardship Trail Map

Located off Lampblack Road Hiking X-Country Sking

Directions to the Park >>

Location Highland Pond and Parkway Streets

Acreage 29

Map / Lot R 1 / 15

Legal Reference 409 / 448

Use Restriction: None

Historical Information

Highland Park was acquired by the City of Greenfield in June of 1890 for $1,000 from Frank J Pratt Jr.

Description

Highland Park is a large property bordered by a residential area and the Rocky mountain Park. Highland Park offers many recreational pursuits including tennis, hiking, mountain biking on some trails, cross country skiing and some fishing. Highland Park is home to Highland Pond and bordered by Temple Woods. A full listing of park amenities and facilities is listed below.

Clay Tennis Courts (4)

The Park offers 4 clay tennis courts. The courts are lined and playable during the tennis season approximately May through October depending on weather conditions. The clay courts are maintained by the Department of Public Works that perform routine maintenance each year. During the off-season the fenced in tennis courts are locked to prevent damage to the saturated clay surface.

Water Fountain (1)

There is one water fountain located at the northwest side of the tennis courts. It is operational during the tennis season.

Highland Pond

The issues surrounding Highland Pond are covered in the Ecological Report and Management Plan completed by Valley Environmental Services. The pond is currently used for summer fishing activities, but some restrictions do apply.

Warming Hut (1)

A warming hut that was once used when ice skating was possible on Highland pond still exists on the property along Parkway Street.

Trail Network

Currently, three formal trails exist in Highland Park. They can be used for a mix of activities including hiking, mountain biking, cross country skiing, and jogging. Improvements to the trails should be made most critically at the trail heads. The existing sign along Parkway Street is confusing and should be updated. Signage with clearly marked trailheads, destinations, and distances is desperately needed within Highland Park. Additionally, signage for approved and restricted use and park regulations should be visible and inconspicuous.

Trees of Highland Park Walking Tour

Members of the Greenfield Tree Committee have put together a walking tour of trees in Highland Park in Greenfield. Take a walking - or virtual - tour of diverse trees located in the 29-acre Highland Park. This approximately 1-mile walk is relatively easy, but wear sturdy shoes for some rocky terrain. To navigate, follow the numbered icons on the map and the corresponding signs on the trees. --- Please park in the gravel parking area if arriving by car, and look for the first tour sign at the head of the trail to the left of the Highland Park portrait sign and the waste station. Head onto the trail leading uphill (not the trail to the right). Virtual Walking tour of trees in Highland Park in Greenfield >>

Parking

One formally designated parking area is located in Highland Park. It is a gravel surface east of the tennis courts and south of Highland Pond. Possible improvements to parking issues is described in the improvements section.

Virtual Walking tour of trees in Highland Park in Greenfield >>

Members of the Greenfield Tree Committee have put together a walking tour of trees in Highland Park in Greenfield.

Trees of Highland Park Walking Tour

Take a walking - or virtual - tour of diverse trees located in the 29-acre Highland Park. This approximately 1-mile walk is relatively easy, but wear sturdy shoes for some rocky terrain. To navigate, follow the numbered icons on the map and the corresponding signs on the trees. --- Please park in the gravel parking area if arriving by car, and look for the first tour sign at the head of the trail to the left of the Highland Park portrait sign and the waste station. Head onto the trail leading uphill (not the trail to the right).