Winter Storage Checklist for RVs, Boats and Cars in the Roaring Fork Valley

Winter in the Roaring Fork Valley is long, cold and bright. A camper, boat or summer car that sits outside from November to April takes snow load on the roof, freeze and thaw in every seal, and months of high-altitude sun on paint and plastics. Putting it in an enclosed garage solves most of that. Prepping it properly before it goes in solves the rest.

1. RVs and travel trailers

• Winterize the plumbing: drain the fresh, gray and black tanks, blow out the lines or run RV antifreeze through them, and bypass the water heater. An enclosed unit keeps the snow off, but it is not heated.
• Empty the fridge and prop the doors open so it does not grow mold.
• Take out food and anything that attracts mice, and set traps or deterrents inside.
• Disconnect the house batteries or take them home on a maintainer.
• Close the vents and cover the roof air conditioner if your rig calls for it.
• Check tire pressure and chock the wheels once it is parked.

Not sure your rig fits our 14x35 garages? Read Will my RV fit in a 14x35 storage unit? first.

2. Boats

• Drain the engine block and lower unit, or follow your engine maker's winterizing steps, before the first hard freeze.
• Stabilize the fuel and top off the tank to limit condensation.
• Pull drain plugs, dry the bilge and open the hatches so air moves.
• Remove electronics, cushions and anything that holds moisture.
• Check the trailer tires, bearings and lights now, so it is ready in spring.

Most boats on their trailers fit a 10x25 or 10x30, and bigger boats and pontoons go in a 14x35. See RV and boat storage.

3. The summer car, truck or side-by-side

• Wash it, including the underside, so road salt and mag chloride do not sit on the metal all winter.
• Fill the tank and add stabilizer.
• Put the battery on a maintainer or disconnect it.
• Inflate the tires to the top of the recommended range.
• Check that your insurance covers a stored vehicle.

A 10x20 works as a one-car garage and a 10x25 takes a crew-cab or a side-by-side on its trailer. See garage rental and car storage.

4. Timing

Enclosed RV and boat garages in the valley fill before the first snow and turn over in spring. If you do not have a unit yet, join the waitlist for the size you need now so you are first in line when one opens.

Ready for winter?

Glenwood Springs Storage is at 5455 County Road 154, off Highway 82 near Cattle Creek, about 12 minutes from downtown Glenwood Springs and from Carbondale. See which sizes are open in our unit list, or call or text (970) 633-3122.