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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.

Celestial Park's Luna statue is stunning

Our Sneak Peek at Epic Universe: First Impressions of Universal’s Bold New Theme Park

by Scott McConkey

We just stepped into the future of theme parks—and you won’t believe what’s coming. Epic Universe officially opens May 22, 2025, but we got a sneak peek of the park during its technical rehearsal. What can you expect when the gates open? Let’s look behind the curtain.Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you … Read More

Sandhill cranes fly over Creamer's Field, Fairbanks, Alaska.

Binoculars Are Great, But This Tool Will Take Your Birding to the Next Level

by Scott McConkey

Are you new to birding or want to improve your identification skills? This tool is a birding game changer and a must have after binoculars.

A man stands between two trees and looks ahead at mountains during sunset

A Spring Visitor’s Guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

by Scott McConkey

Julie and I have explored America’s most-visited national park at various times of the year, but spring in the Smokies is special. A spring trip is all about timing based on your interests. A visit in March looks very different from a visit in May. Whether your primary interest is hitting the hiking trails or sitting … Read More

Grand Teton Mountains reflect in a lake

When Should You Visit a National Park? These 7 Days Are Free

by Scott McConkey

When should you take that national park trip you have been dreaming about? These days are free!

man sitting on gang chair with feet on luggage looking at airplane

Which Frequent Flyer Program Is Right for You? A Comparison of the Best

by Scott McConkey

Let’s face it. Travel is expensive. It takes considerable time and work to save money to enjoy a week of vacation. Many travelers utilize rewards programs as a strategy to save money for trips. The challenge is to determine which program is right for you. With travel credit cards, hotel rewards programs, and frequent flyer programs, … Read More

A hand covered with green trees holds a planet with a tree while a human hand helps support the world

5 Easy Ways To Celebrate National Park Week and Earth Day

by Scott McConkey

April brings more than showers and blooming flowers. It allows us to show Mother Earth some love during Earth Day and National Park Week. The National Park Service (NPS) holds many volunteer and recreational events during the celebration, including a free entrance day. Let’s look at the events to see how you can celebrate.When is … Read More

A woman sits at an overlook to enjoy views of towering granite cliffs.

3 Days, 3 National Parks: A Dream Road Trip on the Majestic Mountain Loop

by Scott McConkey

Take an unforgettable journey through 3 of America’s most iconic national parks!

A woman walks along a trail in Mammoth Cave National Park, KY

Must-Know Tips for Exploring the Wonders of Mammoth Cave National Park

by Scott McConkey

The hills of Kentucky cover a secret—the world’s longest-known cave system. We provide essential tips to make the most of your national park cave adventure.

The image on the left shows a man walking in Mammoth Cave and the image on the right shows a woman in Carlsbad Caverns.

The Ultimate Cave Showdown: Mammoth Cave vs. Carlsbad Caverns

by Scott McConkey

Mammoth Cave and Carlsbad Caverns are national parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Which should you visit? We explored both iconic caves to provide you with the inside scoop and declare a winner!

A man stands behind a fence, looking at large granite cliffs across a meadow in Yosemite National Park.

The Decline of Our National Parks: Crisis From Trump-Era Cuts and What It Means for 2025 Travelers

by Scott McConkey

The Trump national park cuts impact the parks in many ways, some not so obvious. What will 2025 travel look like, and what can you do to help save our parks?