Rock Master 2026 at Arco, Italy

It’s legend. An icon built on pure passion. From 2 to 4 October 2026, the Trentino event returns to make the hearts of climbing fans beat faster, celebrating the “Vertical Thrill” in the one and only Home of Climbing in Garda Trentino.

The 2026 edition marks a truly special milestone: the 40th anniversary of a one-of-a-kind event, delivering three days of sport, energy and excitement in the climbing paradise of the Arco Climbing Stadium.

Beneath the towering Monte Colodri, the world’s top athletes and leading figures of a sport that continues to grow and has firmly earned its place on the Olympic stage will once again take centre stage.

The most anticipated climbing event of the season is already in full swing behind the scenes, with Rock Master 20.20 and Garda Trentino working to deliver another outstanding edition, featuring the thrilling Duel Lead and KO Boulder formats. Both are proven crowd favourites. KO Boulder delivers fast-paced elimination rounds that are easy to follow and packed with intensity, where climbers aim to reach the top of each problem in the fewest attempts. In Duel Lead, the world’s best climbers go head-to-head on two identical parallel walls in a spectacular race against the clock, keeping both live audiences and TV viewers on the edge of their seats.

As always, the competition is just part of the show. A rich programme of side events brings the full Rock Master experience to life, including talks, athlete meet-and-greets, challenges and a wide range of activities. The popular Expo area returns, showcasing the latest products and innovations from leading brands, alongside a dedicated Kids area, a Food area for relaxed social moments, and much more.

Since 1986, Arco has earned its title as the “Home of Climbing”, becoming a true reference point for the sport. From its early days as one of the first competitions on natural rock, to the introduction of Italy’s first pioneering artificial wall in 1988, Rock Master has always stood out for its innovative spirit, helping shape its status as one of the most iconic events in the climbing world.

At the heart of it all remains the elite of climbing: the strongest athletes on the planet coming together to compete in a unique format and an unforgettable atmosphere that exists only at Rock Master in Arco, a place where the very best of outdoor culture in Trentino continues to grow.

40 years of climbing events in Arco.

From 2 to 4 October, the magic of climbing returns. Emotions rise, adrenaline kicks in, and the eyes of fans around the world are already shining.