In celebration of the 109th anniversary of the National Park Service, Apple has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at supporting and promoting the United States’ national parks. These efforts encompass financial contributions, fitness challenges, and curated content across various Apple platforms.
Apple Pay Donations
From August 22 to August 29, 2025, Apple will donate $10 to the National Park Foundation for every purchase made using Apple Pay at Apple Stores, on the Apple Store app, or through its website. This marks the ninth consecutive year that Apple has conducted this donation campaign, underscoring its ongoing commitment to preserving and enhancing the nation’s natural treasures.
Apple Watch Activity Challenge
On August 24, Apple Watch users are invited to participate in a special activity challenge designed to celebrate the great outdoors. By recording any workout of 20 minutes or more using any app that integrates with the Health app, participants can earn a unique virtual trophy and animated stickers. These rewards can be shared via Messages, FaceTime, and other communication platforms, encouraging users to engage with and appreciate the beauty of national parks.
Fitness+ Content Inspired by National Parks
Apple Fitness+ subscribers can look forward to a new selection of Time to Run episodes inspired by various national parks. These guided running experiences aim to transport users to scenic park locations, offering immersive audio and visual elements that highlight the unique landscapes and histories of these sites. This initiative seeks to motivate users to stay active while fostering a deeper connection with the nation’s natural heritage.
Curated App Store Collections
To assist users in exploring the great outdoors, Apple has curated a collection of top-rated apps for hiking and outdoor activities, available on the App Store. This collection includes the official National Park Service app, which provides comprehensive information on park locations, trail maps, and visitor resources. By highlighting these apps, Apple aims to equip users with the tools they need to plan and enjoy their national park adventures safely and effectively.
Enhanced Apple Maps Guides
Apple Maps has introduced a dedicated National Parks guide featuring thousands of hiking trails across the country. This guide offers detailed information on trail lengths, difficulty levels, and points of interest, making it easier for users to plan their visits and navigate the parks. The integration of topographic maps and real-time updates ensures that adventurers have access to accurate and up-to-date information during their excursions.
National Parks Content on Apple Podcasts
For those interested in learning more about the history, culture, and natural beauty of national parks, Apple Podcasts has curated a collection of episodes and series focused on these topics. This selection includes stories from park rangers, historians, and enthusiasts, providing listeners with diverse perspectives and insights into the significance of these protected areas. By offering this content, Apple encourages users to deepen their understanding and appreciation of the nation’s parks.
Apple’s Ongoing Commitment to National Parks
Apple’s support for national parks is not a new endeavor. Over the years, the company has consistently introduced initiatives to promote and preserve these natural spaces. For instance, in previous years, Apple has:
– 2017: Donated $1 to the National Park Foundation for every Apple Pay purchase made at Apple Stores, on apple.com, or through the Apple Store app in the U.S. from July 1 through 15. Additionally, on July 15, Apple Watch users could earn a special activity badge by completing a 3.5-mile workout, matching the length of a hike from Old Faithful to Mallard Lake in Yellowstone National Park.
– 2018: Continued its support by donating $1 for every Apple Pay purchase made at Apple Stores, on apple.com, or through the Apple Store app in the U.S. from August 24 through 31. An Apple Watch Activity Challenge was also introduced on September 1 to celebrate Redwood National Park’s 50th anniversary.
– 2019: Announced a donation of $10 to the National Park Foundation for each Apple Pay purchase made at Apple Stores, on apple.com, or through the Apple Store app from August 17 through 25. This initiative aimed to support conservation projects and youth programs within the parks.
– 2020: Committed to donating up to $1 million to the National Park Foundation based on Apple Pay purchases made from August 24 through 30. This effort was complemented by special content in the Apple TV app and other platforms to educate and inspire users about national parks.
– 2021: Celebrated the 105th anniversary of the National Park Service by donating $10 for every Apple Pay purchase made at Apple Stores, on apple.com, or through the Apple Store app in the U.S. from August 23 through 29. Apple also offered curated content across Apple Maps, the App Store, Apple TV app, Apple Podcasts, Apple Books, and Apple Music to highlight the beauty and significance of national parks.
– 2022: Marked the 106th anniversary by donating $10 for every Apple Pay purchase made at Apple Stores, on apple.com, or through the Apple Store app in the U.S. from August 8 onward. The company also provided curated content in Apple Podcasts, Apple Maps, and other platforms to celebrate the national parks.
– 2023: Continued its tradition by donating $10 to the National Park Foundation for every Apple Pay transaction made at Apple Stores, on apple.com, or through the Apple Store app from August 21 through 27. This initiative was part of Apple’s ongoing efforts to support and promote national parks.
– 2024: Supported the U.S. National Park Service’s 108th birthday by donating $10 for every Apple Pay purchase made at Apple Stores, on apple.com, or through the Apple Store app from August 19 through 25. Apple also announced upcoming Apple Maps updates to include topographic hiking trail support, enhancing users’ experiences in national parks.
Through these consistent efforts, Apple demonstrates its dedication to preserving and promoting the United States’ national parks. By integrating support for these natural treasures into its products and services, Apple encourages users to engage with and appreciate the beauty and significance of the nation’s protected areas.
