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.

An Amtrak train sits at the station, ready for passengers

Planning a Train Trip? Here’s Your Guide to the Best Amtrak Routes in the U.S.

by Scott McConkey

Planning a U.S. train trip? This guide breaks down top Amtrak routes by region, duration, and scenery—plus tips for booking, onboard amenities, and where each line can take you.

Two people toast with hot chocolate drinks on Banff Avenue during the SnowDays Festival.

The Sweetest Way To Explore Banff This Winter

by Scott McConkey

From classic cocoa to wild winter flavors, Banff’s Hot Chocolate Trail is a sweet way to explore the season. Here’s where to go—and what to try.

Closeup of a giant bear snow sculpture at the SnowDays Festival in Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada.

Banff’s SnowDays Festival Is Winter Magic and Family Fun

by Scott McConkey

Looking for a unique winter national park experience? Banff National Park in Alberta delivers winter magic and family fun with SnowDays Festival. Here is what you need to know!

Two people enjoy the view of mountain ridges in Elk Knob State Park

What in the World Is Stick Season?

by Scott McConkey

Most travelers visit Western North Carolina in spring, fall, or winter. But locals have a quieter favorite—and it might just be the region’s best-kept secret.

Package luggage sits next to a window with a plane flying in the background

What’s Next in Travel: 15 Trends to Watch in 2026

by Scott McConkey

2026 is reshaping how we travel. From AI planning to America’s 250th birthday, these 15 trends reveal a more intentional, playful, and surprising travel landscape.

A man walks among sea stacks on a beach in Olympic National Park, WA

What No One Tells You About Visiting Olympic National Park

by Scott McConkey

Olympic National Park is vast, varied, and full of surprises. Here’s what to know before you go—from rainforest crowds to tide safety and hidden gems.

Aerial view of the Grand Canyon, Arizona

Grand Canyon Survived a Fire. Can It Survive the Government Shutdown?

by Scott McConkey

After wildfire damage and a federal shutdown, Grand Canyon National Park is still pushing forward—thanks to emergency funding and nonprofit support.

Julie McConkey, co-founder of the Miles with McConkey Travel Blog, walks toward the badlands formations in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND.

4 U.S. Destinations National Geographic Says You Should Visit in 2026

by Scott McConkey

Four U.S. destinations made National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026 list. From the rugged beauty of North Dakota’s Badlands to the urban birding scene in Pittsburgh, here’s what makes each one special—and how to explore them.

Jack-O'-Lantern with white smoke coming out

Best Cities for Halloween 2025, According to WalletHub

by Scott McConkey

From nostalgic costumes to candy stats and city rankings, this Halloween guide has it all—plus expert tips to save while you celebrate.

A woman makes a face due to the smell of sulfur in Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone’s Rotten Egg Smell: What It Is and Why It Matters

by Scott McConkey

Yellowstone’s smell is unforgettable. Here’s what causes it, plus tips for visitors curious about the sulfur scent.