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 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.

Big Room Trail cave decorations

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.

Still waters in Acadia National Park show the reflection of a stone bridge with arches as trees don fall foliage in the background

When Should You Visit Acadia? A Season-by-Season Guide to Maine’s Crown Jewel

by Scott McConkey

From foggy spring mornings to fiery fall foliage, Acadia offers something special in every season. This guide breaks down the best times to visit based on weather, crowds, costs, and activities — so you can plan a trip that fits your style and budget.

The sun rises over Bryce Canyon.

September’s National Park Birthdays: What You’ll Discover Beyond the Dates

by Scott McConkey

September is a great time to visit many national parks. Visit one of these five and you can say happy birthday in person.

looking up from ground to sky through a grove of tall trees in Congaree National Park

When to Visit Congaree National Park for Fewer Bugs and Better Views

by Scott McConkey

Wondering when to visit Congaree National Park? This seasonal guide breaks down weather patterns, crowd levels, lodging costs, and bug activity — from spring fireflies to summer mosquitoes — so you can plan your perfect trip.

A woman walks a boardwalk trail toward a red covered bridge on the Flume Gorge Trail, NH

Hiking the Flume Gorge Trail: A Stunning Walk Through New Hampshire’s Natural Wonder

by Scott McConkey

Explore the Flume Gorge Trail, a breathtaking hike in New Hampshire’s Franconia Notch. Walk past waterfalls, towering granite walls, and forested boardwalks.

A picnic table sits in a park under trees with fall foliage, including gold leaves on the ground

Unpack the Perfect Picnic: Discover the Best State Parks for Scenic Escapes

by Scott McConkey

From lakeside lunches to mountaintop meals, these state parks serve up unforgettable picnic experiences. Discover where nature meets your next great spread.

Rocky cliffs rise above a lake surrounded by trees starting to show fall foliage

The Best State Parks for Hiking—And Why These Trails Stay With You

by Scott McConkey

These aren’t just popular parks—they’re places where the trails leave a mark. Based on Google Maps data and firsthand experience, here are the best state parks for hiking in the U.S.