The site of Four Mile Park is part of the mile house system of the historic Smokey Hill Trail. The master plan for the park addressed the problems of overuse, inadequate facilities, lack of identity, and difficult access. It was necessary to analyze the historic periods in which the park played a role and identify the period of most significance as well as identify important archeological zones on the site. 

The final plan would not only be used as a guide to further development, but as a fundraising tool for the planned new visitors’ center.