Barbara Swords Park is a 10-acre undeveloped, wooded natural area entered from a trailhead behind Highland Elementary School. Renamed in 2018 from Highland Park to honor a former city councilwoman, it has no built park amenities beyond the trail itself.
What to expect
Trails
An informal walking trail runs through the 10 acres of undeveloped, wooded land; exact length and difficulty are not documented by the city. Surface is likely…
Dogs
Westfield requires any animal in a city park or playground to be on a leash no more than six feet long, and owners must clean up after their pet. Posted signs at the site take precedence.
Accessibility
Not confirmed whether the trail is step-free; given the land is described as undeveloped, a paved accessible path is unlikely but not documented either way. Contact the city to confirm.
Managed by
City of Westfield Parks and Recreation Department
(413) 572-6200 · WebsiteWhat's here
On site
Info kiosk
Commemorative stone and plaque mark the park's start
Common questions
Is Barbara Swords Park open today?
Barbara Swords Park is a public preserve in Westfield, MA. There is no live closure feed for preserves & forests; the town's site is the authority for temporary closures.
Is Barbara Swords Park developed with playgrounds or facilities?
No. It's 10 acres of undeveloped, wooded land with a trail and a small memorial stone and plaque; no playground, restroom, or other built amenity is documented.
How do I get to the trailhead?
Walk to the dead end of Oak Avenue Extension, or enter behind Highland Elementary School at 34 Western Ave., where a clearing leads into the park.
Why was it renamed from Highland Park?
The City Council renamed it in September 2018 to honor Barbara Swords, who served on the council for 22 years, from 1986 to 2008.
Where do I park at Barbara Swords Park?
Free lot (free).
Is there an entry fee at Barbara Swords Park?
No, entry is free.
Can I bring my dog to Barbara Swords Park?
Westfield requires any animal in a city park or playground to be on a leash no more than six feet long, and owners must clean up after their pet. Posted signs at the site take precedence.
Is Barbara Swords Park wheelchair accessible?
Not confirmed whether the trail is step-free; given the land is described as undeveloped, a paved accessible path is unlikely but not documented either way. Contact the city to confirm.