Scott McConkey

Scott McConkey is a nationally syndicated travel writer and the founder of Miles with McConkey, where he provides vacationers and travel enthusiasts with trip ideas, travel guides, and inspiration. His travel articles have been seen in The Associated Press wire, ABC, CBS, CW, FOX, NBC, MSN, and many more. He and his wife, Julie, left the corporate world after nearly 30 years for a life of travel and adventure. What started as a gap year has evolved into a second act. She creates visual content while he utilizes the written word. Their goal is to create content inspiring others to travel more and live their best lives now.

A boardwalk trail leads through a meadow to a large granite dome with a tall waterfall in Yosemite National Park.

10 National Parks with October Birthdays Worth Celebrating

by Scott McConkey

October brings the anniversary of ten national parks, each offering a unique reason to visit and celebrate. From desert solitude to alpine drama, these birthday parks invite fall travelers to explore nature’s legacy firsthand.

A woman gazes at Diablo Lake in North Cascades National Park from an overlook

From Skagit to Stehekin: How to Say Names Across North Cascades Without Making Locals Cringe

by Scott McConkey

From Stehekin to Skagit, discover the rhythm behind North Cascades’ most iconic places—and speak with confidence and care.

A man sits on a piece of driftwood to watch sunset at Rialto Beach, Olympic National Park, WA

How to Say the Names of Olympic’s Most Beloved Places (Without Sounding Like a Tourist)

by Scott McConkey

From Elwha to Quinault, discover the rhythm behind Olympic’s most iconic places—and speak with confidence and care.

Vibrant fall foliage stretches across the Smokies in Tennessee

9 National Parks That Shine in Fall: Where to See Peak Foliage Across the U.S.

by Scott McConkey

From golden aspens to fiery maples, these nine national parks offer unforgettable fall color. We’ve visited six—here’s what to expect and when to go.

Joshua trees stand tall in the Mojave Desert in Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Joshua Tree: Stark Desert Beauty or Overhyped Detour?

by Scott McConkey

Joshua Tree sparks strong reactions—some find it magical, others leave underwhelmed. This guide explores when it’s worth visiting, depending on your age, travel style, and expectations.

Clouds reflect on the water's surface in Everglades National Park

When the Everglades Come Alive: Timing Your Visit for Wildlife, Weather, and Wonder

by Scott McConkey

Planning a trip to Everglades National Park? From dry season perks and wildlife sightings to mosquito avoidance and budget-friendly timing, here’s how to choose the best time to go.

A woman hikes toward Denali Park Road on the Savage River Loop with snowy peaks on the horizon

Gentle Trails, Grand Views: Easy Hikes in Denali for Every Kind of Explorer

by Scott McConkey

From boardwalk strolls to wildlife-rich loops, these easy hikes in Denali National Park offer stunning scenery without the strain—ideal for first-timers, families, and travelers over 50 who crave peaceful paths and panoramic rewards.

Yellow leaves lay on a dirt road leading to a red covered bridge in Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio.

When to Visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park—and What You’ll Miss If You Go Too Soon (or Too Late)

by Scott McConkey

Each season at Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers something different—from spring wildflowers to fall foliage, summer crowds to winter solitude. We break down the best times to go based on weather, activities, and costs—so you can plan a trip that fits your style.

What Surprised Us Most at Carlsbad Caverns—and Why It Might Be Worth Your Trip

by Scott McConkey

We weren’t sure what to expect at Carlsbad Caverns—but the experience surprised us with jaw-dropping sights, unexpected quirks, and a few honest caveats. Here’s what stood out and what we’d tell any first-time visitor.

A woman looks at a road that winds downward through Badlands National Park, South Dakota

What We Got Wrong in Badlands National Park — So You Don’t Have To

by Scott McConkey

We made every classic Badlands blunder—wrong time of day, wrong side of the park, and not enough time to soak it all in. Here’s what we’d do differently, and how you can avoid the same regrets.