Walking is one of the easiest ways to stay fit, reduce stress, and enjoy the outdoors.
But let’s face it: staying motivated can be a challenge.
That’s where virtual walking challenge apps come in.
If you’ve been struggling with motivation, they might be exactly what you need.
Here are our top three picks to supercharge your walking routine in 2025.
What are Virtual Walking Challenge apps exactly?
In our view, these apps need to:
- Offer specific challenges framed by distance or time
- Include at least some storytelling or engaging elements
- Reward you with something at the end, whether virtual or in real life
In this article, we’ll focus on gamified apps that meet these criteria (so, not your typical step tracker which we like, too, of course!).
Our top picks for Virtual Walking Challenge Apps
#1 Explora’s Walking Challenge - Fun and Easy to Pick Up
If you’re looking for a gamified experience that's fun and easy to pick up, Explora’s Walking Challenge is for you.
Designed to keep things fun and motivating, our app combines step tracking with a blend of challenges, quests, and collectible characters.
Who Is this Challenge For?
Whether you’re a casual walker or aiming for 20,000 steps a day, our app provides goals that fit your pace.
It provides difficulty options ranging from 50,000 steps to 400,000 steps a month.
Strengths:
- Quests and Monthly Challenges: Keep your routine exciting with rotating quests and competitions.
- Leaderboards: Compete with friends and players worldwide.
- Collectible Characters: Unlock unique characters as rewards for your efforts, adding some extra fun.
#2 The Conqueror Challenges - Real Life Medals!
The Conqueror Challenges is a virtual adventure app that turns your steps into a journey across iconic routes worldwide: from the Great Wall of China to the Appalachian Trail.
Who Is this Challenge For?
If you're excited about receiving a real medal for your efforts.
Strengths:
- Real-World Routes: Walk famous routes without leaving your city. Plenty of options!
- Customizable Goals: Choose a challenge that matches your fitness level.
- Physical Medals: Receive beautifully crafted medals upon completing challenges.
#3 Fantasy Hike - A Chill and Polished Experience
Ever wanted to join Frodo on his quest to destroy the One Ring?
Fantasy Hike lets you turn your walks into an adventure through an epic world that is a lot like Middle-Earth.
Who Is this Challenge For?
This app is tailor-made for fans of fantasy, particularly Tolkien enthusiasts.
If you love the idea of immersing yourself in a fictional world while tracking your steps, Fantasy Hike is a must-try.
Strengths:
- Middle-earth Adventures: Progress through the iconic landscapes of Tolkien’s world.
- Immersive Storytelling: Follow detailed milestones and updates as you journey alongside the Fellowship.
- Themed Motivation: Daily updates keep you inspired to stay consistent.
Why Virtual Walking Challenges Work
Virtual walking challenge apps like these make fitness less about numbers and more about experiences.
They gamify your daily routine, turning mundane steps into exciting adventures or competitive milestones.
Whether you’re drawn to gamification, scenic routes, or epic storytelling, there’s an app to match your style.
Start Your Walking Adventure Today
Ready to level up your walking game?
Download one of these top apps and start your journey.
Even better: you can play them all!
