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The Harvey Ball Conservation Area, also known as Ball Property is a City park consisting only of a nature trail. This conservation area is used as a wildlife sanctuary.

Located along the Blackstone River and Broad Meadow Brook Trail, this area is known as the "Smiley Face" Trail. The slogan for this park is "Take only Pictures, Leave only Smiles".

This is a cooperative conservation project between The City of Worcester, Massachusetts Audubon Society and the Greater Worcester Land Trust.

Take a Hike

Trail Sign/Marker for the Smiley Face Trail

The hiking trail and surrounding land are named in honor of the late Harvey Ball - a Worcester native who invented and designed the iconic yellow "smiley face." Enjoy a relaxing 0.7 mile hike through the property and take in all of the wonderful surroundings and nature while getting some exercise!

Also Check Out

View some of the other parks in the City. Get out and explore!

East Park Entrance with Griffin Statue

Cristoforo Colombo (East) Park

District: 2

East Park has two stone griffins flanking the park entrance. The park contains lighted football fields, a tennis court, two basketball courts, a splash pad, a new playground, amphitheater and many acres of hillsides connecting the East Side Trail.
Ty Cobb Baseball Diamond and Dugouts

Ty Cobb Park

District: 5

Ty Cobb Park is located on James Street near the Worcester-Auburn line. This park features two little league baseball fields and a softball field. Ty Cobb Park is the home of Ty Cobb Little League, which was established in 1952, being one of the first three Little Leagues in Worcester.
Cascades Park Waterfall

Cascades Park

District: 5

Named for the cascading waterfall visible from Cataract Street, Cascades Park abuts a number of other conservation areas and parks. This park has a number of hiking and nature trails which consist of interesting geographic features, most notably, the waterfall which leads into Cook Pond.

Quick Facts

Location: 59 Dane Avenue - Map

District: 3

Size: 15.9 acres

Parking Lot(s): No

Features:

  • Nature Trail(s)

Know Before You Go

Contact Information

Address

Parks & Recreation
50 Officer Manny Familia Way
Worcester, MA 01605

Contact

Phone: 508-799-1190
Fax: 508-799-1293
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Hours

Monday - Friday
8 a.m. - 5 p.m.