National Parks Apple Watch Challenge August 23

Event Overview

Mark your calendars for August 23, when Apple Watch users can take part in the latest National Parks Activity Challenge. This event is part of an ongoing series of limited-time activity challenges designed to motivate you to move more while celebrating the natural beauty of U.S. national parks.

To earn the award, you’ll need to complete a specific fitness goal on that day—typically a walk, hike, or workout of a set duration or distance. The challenge is open to all Apple Watch owners who have the Fitness app configured.

As with previous National Parks challenges, this one encourages you to get outdoors and explore. No registration is required; simply meet the activity requirement on August 23 to unlock the achievement. Keep an eye on your watch’s Activity app for a notification when the challenge goes live.

How to Participate

To take part in this challenge, you must meet two core requirements on August 23. First, you need an Apple Watch paired with your iPhone. Second, you must use the Fitness app on your Apple Watch to record a workout.

Your workout must last at least 20 minutes to count toward the challenge. Any type of workout that the Fitness app can track qualifies, whether it’s an outdoor run, a cycling session, a yoga practice, or a strength training routine. The key is that the workout is logged through the Fitness app on your watch—not manually added later or tracked on a third-party device.

Here’s a quick checklist to confirm you’re ready:

• Own an Apple Watch and have it connected to your iPhone.
• Open the Fitness app on your watch on August 23.
• Start a workout and complete at least 20 continuous minutes of activity.
• Ensure the workout is saved and synced to the Fitness app on your iPhone.

If you meet these conditions, you’ll be eligible for the award. No other registration or sign-up is required—just complete the workout on the specified day.

Award Details

Participants who complete the challenge will earn a limited-edition award in the Fitness app. This award is a digital badge that reflects your achievement, and it is designed to be a visual milestone of your participation.

Once earned, the award can be shared with friends or on social media, allowing you to celebrate your success. Additionally, the award is displayed on your profile within the Fitness app, where it contributes to your collection of achievements. This makes it a lasting part of your fitness history, visible to anyone who views your profile.

Because the award is limited-edition, it is only available during the event period. If you miss the window to participate, you will not be able to earn this specific badge later. Be sure to complete all required activities before the deadline to secure your unique award and add it to your profile for years to come.

Additional Information

This challenge is proudly inspired by the National Park Service’s 104th anniversary, a milestone that celebrates over a century of preserving America’s natural wonders. To honor this occasion, we strongly encourage all participants to get outdoors and explore the parks, trails, and open spaces that make this country so remarkable. Whether you plan a weekend hike, a scenic drive, or a simple walk in a local green space, the goal is to connect with nature while taking part in the event. The anniversary serves as a reminder of the importance of conservation and the joy of discovering the landscapes that have been protected for generations. We hope this challenge inspires you to step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the beauty around you—all while enjoying the spirit of this historic celebration. No special equipment is required, just your curiosity and a willingness to explore. So lace up your shoes, grab a water bottle, and see where the outdoors takes you.