How To Store a Boat Outside in The Colorado Winter

Winter in Colorado does not arrive quietly. One day you are thinking about one last trip to the lake and the next morning your windshield is frozen solid and the wind feels personally offended by your existence. If you plan to store your boat outside through the winter, preparation matters. A lot. The good news is that outdoor boat storage can be done safely and effectively when you know what you are protecting against and how to do it correctly.

This guide walks through detailed and proven methods for storing your boat outside during winter so it stays protected from freezing temperatures, snow, wind, pests, and long periods of inactivity. Think of it as winter armor for your boat. We also have other helpful guides on the types of storage you need for Henderson, Colorado weather that can be helpful to get the most from your storage, or if you’re new to the Denver/Henderson area, this pros and cons list of living in Henderson can help get you situated. Alright, let’s talk about proper boat storage!

Start With a Thorough Cleaning

Cleaning your boat before winter storage is not about appearances. It is about removing anything that can trap moisture or attract pests. Dirt, algae, bird droppings, and road grime all hold moisture against surfaces. When temperatures drop below freezing, that moisture can contribute to staining, corrosion, and surface damage over time.

Inside the boat, remove everything that did not come bolted down from the factory. Food crumbs, drink spills, paper towels, and even unopened snacks can attract rodents. Clean vinyl seats with a marine grade cleaner and allow them to dry completely. Vacuum carpets and storage compartments thoroughly. Leave compartments open for a day or two before covering the boat so hidden moisture can escape. Mold loves a dark, damp space and winter gives it plenty of time to settle in.

Protect the Engine and Fuel System

Engine winterization is where outdoor storage success is often decided. Freezing temperatures in Henderson Colorado are more than enough to crack engine blocks or damage cooling systems if water is left inside. Even a single overnight freeze can do lasting harm.

Flush the engine according to manufacturer guidelines and drain all water from the cooling system. Use marine antifreeze where recommended, never automotive antifreeze. Add a fuel stabilizer designed for ethanol blended fuels and then run the engine briefly so stabilized fuel reaches the entire system. This prevents fuel breakdown, varnish buildup, and clogged injectors. Change the oil before storage as used oil contains contaminants that can damage internal components during long periods of sitting.

Drain All Water Systems Completely

Any system that holds water needs attention before winter storage. This includes bilges, live wells, ballast tanks, washdown hoses, sinks, showers, and any onboard plumbing. Water expands when it freezes and it expands aggressively. Hoses crack, fittings split, and pumps fail when water is left behind.

Drain all systems fully and then double check low points where water can collect. Tilting the trailer slightly bow up helps water flow toward drains. Manually activate pumps to clear remaining water and leave drain plugs out during storage if the design allows. Taking extra time here prevents discovering cracked plumbing when spring arrives.

Choose the Right Boat Cover

A boat cover is not optional for outdoor winter storage. In Henderson Colorado, boats are exposed to snow, wind driven dust, UV rays, and dramatic temperature swings. A high quality, breathable, marine grade cover protects against all of it.

Choose a cover designed specifically for your boat type and size. Breathable fabric prevents condensation from building up underneath. Avoid plastic tarps as they trap moisture and tend to tear in wind. Use a support pole or frame system to create a peaked shape so snow and water shed off rather than pooling. Secure the cover tightly with straps or tie downs rated for wind. Colorado wind has a habit of testing weak knots.

Elevate and Support the Boat Correctly

How your boat sits during storage affects both the hull and the trailer. The boat should be level or slightly bow up to encourage drainage. Trailer tires should be properly inflated to avoid flat spotting during long periods of inactivity.

If possible, place the trailer on blocks or jack stands to reduce stress on tires and suspension. Make sure the storage surface drains well so melting snow does not leave the trailer sitting in water for weeks. Standing moisture accelerates corrosion and tire degradation. A stable, well positioned boat is far easier to deal with when it is time to move it again.

Remove and Protect Batteries and Electronics

Cold temperatures are hard on batteries. When left in freezing conditions, batteries lose charge capacity and may fail entirely. Remove all batteries from the boat and store them in a dry location where temperatures stay above freezing. Fully charge them before storage and recharge them periodically throughout winter to maintain battery health.

Remove portable electronics such as fish finders, GPS units, radios, and screens. Extreme cold and temperature swings can damage internal components and screens. Store electronics indoors in a dry area. Taking ten minutes to remove them now saves hundreds of dollars later.

Prevent Moisture and Pest Damage

Moisture control inside the boat is critical during winter storage. Use moisture absorbers such as silica gel packs or calcium chloride based products placed in compartments and cabins. These products actively pull moisture from the air and help prevent mildew and odors during long storage periods.

Rodents are a serious concern during winter. Mice look for warm, quiet places and boats are appealing shelters. Use deterrents such as peppermint oil soaked cotton balls placed in compartments and storage areas. Commercial rodent repellent packs designed for enclosed spaces also work well. Avoid poison as rodents may die inside inaccessible areas. Seal obvious entry points where possible and remove all nesting materials like paper, towels, or foam padding.

Inspect Regularly During Storage

Outdoor winter storage should include occasional check ins. After heavy snow or wind storms, inspect the cover for looseness, tears, or sagging areas. Remove excessive snow buildup if accessible to prevent unnecessary strain on the cover and support system.

Look for signs of pests or moisture buildup when possible. Check straps and tie downs to ensure they remain secure. A quick inspection every few weeks helps catch issues early. Boats that are ignored for months tend to express their displeasure later.

Why Secure Storage Location Matters

Even the best preparation benefits from a proper storage location. A secure, well maintained outdoor storage facility offers advantages that a driveway or open lot cannot. Controlled access reduces theft and vandalism risk. Good drainage prevents standing water. Wide lanes and organized layouts reduce accidental damage.

Preparing for an Easy Spring Launch

Boats that are properly stored come out clean, functional, and ready to go. Boats that are rushed into storage often require repairs, cleaning, and troubleshooting before they ever touch water again.

Colorado spring arrives quickly and boating season follows soon after. When your boat is ready, you are ready. Taking the time to store your boat correctly outside during winter means fewer headaches, fewer repair bills, and more time enjoying the water when warmer days return.

Storing a boat outside in Henderson can be done safely with the right steps, the right protection, and the right location. With proper preparation and a secure place like STOR-N-LOCK, your boat can handle even Henderson Colorado winter weather and be ready for the next season without missing a beat.