West National Parks

Big Room Trail cave decorations

What Surprised Us Most at Carlsbad Caverns—and Why…

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.
Towering saguaros reach to the sky in Saguaro National Park West, AZ

Saguaro East vs West: What We Experienced—and What…

We visited Saguaro National Park’s West side and loved it—but couldn’t help wondering what the East side had to offer. After digging into the details, we’re sharing what makes each side unique and how to choose the one that fits your travel style.
A saguaro stands tall with several arms, showing its age and wear and tear in Saguaro National Park, Arizona.

Is Saguaro National Park Worth Visiting? Here’s What…

We weren’t sure what to expect from Saguaro National Park—but its massive cacti, quiet beauty, and split layout caught us off guard. Find out who’ll love it, who might skip it, and whether it’s worth your time.
Scenes of Glacier Bay from a cruise ship captured by the Miles with McConkey Travel Blog

Best Time to Visit Glacier Bay: A Seasonal…

Wondering when to explore Alaska’s Glacier Bay National Park? This seasonal guide shares firsthand advice on the best time to visit—whether you’re chasing whales, kayaking fjords, or enjoying crowd-free serenity.
Sunset over the harbor, Ventura, California.

Why Ventura Is the Best Base Camp for…

Discover why Ventura makes the ideal base camp for Channel Islands National Park. From harbor ferries to local eats, this coastal town delivers pre-park adventure and post-island relaxation.
Joshua trees and snow-capped mountains

Easy Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park: Scenic…

Looking for easy hikes in Joshua Tree National Park? These short trails offer stunning views, unique rock formations, and a taste of desert magic—perfect for families, casual hikers, and adventurers over 50.
A woman walks along a path through a redwood forest

Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting? What Makes…

Redwood National Park surprised us. From misty groves and coastal bluffs to moments of quiet awe beneath towering giants — here’s why this place lingers long after you leave.
A Caribou cross a field with Denali covered in snow in the background

What Are Denali’s Big 5—and Where Can You…

Wondering what the Denali Big 5 are—and where to find them? This wildlife guide introduces Alaska’s most iconic animals and shares the best spots and tips for seeing them in the wild.
A woman stands on a paved path by colorful, striped mounds - Blue Mesa Trail in Petrified Forest National Park.

More Than Fossilized Wood: What Makes Petrified Forest…

We didn’t expect to be moved by a place filled with stone logs and silence. But Petrified Forest surprised us—with color, solitude, and stories etched in time.
A woman peers up at a giant sequoia in General Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park

Easy Hikes in Kings Canyon National Park: 7…

Explore the best easy hikes in Kings Canyon National Park — from short waterfall walks to peaceful meadow trails. These scenic paths show off the park’s natural beauty without the strain.
Julie takes pictures along the coast of Santa Cruz Island, CA as part of our Channel Islands National Park review.

Channel Islands National Park Review: Why One of…

We visited Channel Islands National Park together—but didn’t leave feeling the same. One of us fell for its remote beauty. The other? Not so much.
A woman hikes a trail through rugged granite rocks toward a mountain in the distance.

Why Visit Kings Canyon National Park? 6 Great…

Thinking about a trip to Kings Canyon? This underrated national park offers stunning scenery, fewer crowds, and unforgettable adventures—here’s why it’s worth the visit.
A woman sits in the sand, slowly letting sand sift through her outstretched fingers in White Sands National Park.

Top Things to Do in White Sands National…

From hiking through dazzling gypsum dunes to sledding in the sand, White Sands offers unforgettable adventures you won’t find anywhere else.
A woman sits at an overlook to enjoy views of towering granite cliffs.

3 Days, 3 National Parks: A Dream Road…

Take an unforgettable journey through 3 of America's most iconic national parks!
A woman prepares to look at stars through a telescope

A Festival Among Giants: Celebrating the Dark Sky…

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer more than giant trees and deep canyons. Find out why you need to experience these parks at night.
A woman walks by giant sequoia trees on Big Trees Trail, Sequoia National Park, California.

14 Things You Can’t Miss on Your First…

Discover the majestic wonders you can't afford to miss in Sequoia National Park!
A woman looks heavenward with her arms spread wide as she stands under giant sequoias.

One Day, Endless Wonders: Kings Canyon National Park…

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Kings Canyon in just one unforgettable day!
A woman sits on a fence, looking across a meadow at towering granite cliffs.

1 Day in Yosemite National Park: Trails, Views,…

Unlock Yosemite in a day: discover the park’s must-see wonders!
Snowy mountains line the horizon as a plane flies by in the foreground.

We Flew Through Gates of the Arctic National…

We went above Alaska's Arctic Circle to see America's least-visited national park. What was it like?
Carlsbad Caverns National Park

Carlsbad Caverns National Park: What You Need to…

Carlsbad Caverns National Park feels like a trip to another planet. Here is everything you need to know about one of America's most unique parks.
Load More