Apple is launching its annual National Parks Apple Watch Activity Challenge on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Apple Watch users can earn an activity award by completing a qualifying workout that lasts at least 20 minutes on that date.
The challenge includes walking, running, hiking, and wheelchair pushing, as long as the session reaches the 20-minute minimum. As with other Apple Watch activity challenges, completing the requirement generates animated stickers that users can share in the Messages app. The outlets also note that Apple typically pairs the activity challenge with additional U.S. national parks-themed promotions during August.
Across the reports, the key details align on the date and the way people can qualify for the award. 9to5Mac emphasizes the scheduling for the upcoming challenge, while MacRumors adds specific examples of qualifying workout types and the sticker reward. MacRumors also mentions that Apple may offer other related national parks content alongside the challenge.
