Apple to launch National Parks Apple Watch challenge on August 23

Apple will launch its annual National Parks Apple Watch activity challenge on Sunday, August 23, 2026. To earn a digital activity award, users must record at least 20 minutes of a specific activity on that day.

Accepted activities include hiking, walking, running, or wheelchair pushing. Participants who meet the 20-minute threshold will receive a digital badge and animated stickers for use in the Messages app. The challenge is designed to be accessible, requiring only a single recorded workout rather than cumulative daily movement or calorie goals.