Cover Photo: The Gear Garage at The Inn at RiverWalk | Photo Credit: The Inn at Riverwalk

Welcome to The Inn at Riverwalk, a mountain hotel in Edwards, Colorado, where we strive to provide our guests with not just a place to stay but a gateway to unforgettable adventures. As you plan your mountain retreat, you might be wondering what a gear garage is and why it's an essential feature in a hotel for outdoor enthusiasts. In this article, we'll explore the concept of a gear garage, its purpose, potential costs, and the convenience it brings to your stay. So, let's dive in and discover why having a gear garage is a game-changer for your mountain getaway.

Finding out whether your hotel has a gear garage available and the related cost is easy - simply call the front desk of the mountain hotel you’re considering and inquire. At the Inn at Riverwalk, we understand the importance of a gear garage for our outdoor fun-loving visitors and offer it as a complimentary service for our guests.

What is a Gear Garage and its Purpose?

If you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast, it’s more than likely that you have your own gear you prefer to use; whether it’s your ski gear, a snowboard, your fishing tackle, or camping necessities. But who wants to store all of that bulky stuff in their hotel room? The answer to that problem is a gear garage. 

A gear garage is more than just a storage space; it's a haven for your outdoor equipment. Think of it as your own personal locker filled with everything you need to make the most of the breathtaking adventures that await you in Edwards, Colorado. Whether you're an avid skier, hiker, mountain biker, or fishing enthusiast, a gear garage is designed to keep your personal equipment safe, organized, and easily accessible during your stay in the mountains.

Most gear garages offer designated spaces for ski gear, snowboards, bicycles, fishing rods, and much more. Our goal is to provide you with a seamless experience so you can focus on enjoying the great outdoors without the hassle of lugging your gear around.

What Might a Gear Garage Cost?

You might be pleasantly surprised to learn that gear garages are often offered as a complimentary service for mountain hotel guests. We believe that facilitating your outdoor pursuits is an integral part of your mountain getaway experience. However outside of Edwards, not all hotels offer gear garages for free, so it's essential to inquire about any potential charges before booking your stay.

When comparing accommodation options, keep in mind that the value of a gear garage extends beyond cost savings. It allows you to travel light and stress-free, knowing that your equipment is safely stored and ready for your next adventure.

Mountain Bikers set off on an adventure outside the Inn at Riverwalk. | Photo Credit:  The Inn at Riverwalk

Traveling with Equipment: What to Store in a Gear Garage?

Now, you might be wondering what kind of gear is suitable for storage in a gear garage. The answer is simple: any equipment you plan to use during your outdoor escapades!

Winter Gear: Skis, snowboards, ski poles, helmets, snowshoes, and winter apparel. Storing your bulky winter equipment in the gear garage saves you from the hassle of hauling them to your room and keeps your space clutter-free.

Bicycles: Whether you're an avid mountain biker or enjoy leisurely rides along scenic trails, storing your bike in the gear garage ensures it's secure and ready for your next ride.

Fishing Equipment: Anglers will appreciate the convenience of a gear garage to keep their fishing rods, tackle boxes, and waders organized and easily accessible for casting lines in the nearby rivers and streams.

Hiking and Camping Gear: From hiking boots and trekking poles to tents and sleeping bags, a gear garage is an excellent place to store your hiking and camping essentials.

Bringing Your Own Equipment vs. Renting

If you’re an avid outdoorsman, it’s no surprise that you’re considering working outdoor activities and sports into your vacation. While some activities may require specialized equipment that you might prefer to bring from home, others may be easy to rent or check-out with your hotel stay.

Skiing or Snowboarding: If you're an avid skier or snowboarder, bringing your own gear allows you to hit the slopes with familiar equipment. However, if you're trying these activities for the first time, local resorts offer equipment rentals, making it easy for beginners to get started.

Mountain Biking: If you have a favorite mountain bike tailored to your preferences, storing it in the gear garage is a no-brainer. On the other hand, if you're new to mountain biking, you can check-out a specialized hybrid bike at the Gear Garage for no extra charge. 

Fishing: Fly fishing enthusiasts who have their own gear can access prime fishing spots in the area. But if you're new to fishing or didn't bring equipment, you can rent everything you need locally and explore the picturesque rivers and lakes.

Bring Your Gear to Enjoy Attractions Near Edwards, Colorado

The Edwards, Colorado area boasts world-class outdoor attractions in the Rocky Mountains. Bring your own gear and and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, fishing and more without the hassle of renting equipment, and the ease of using your own familiar things. Going out to dinner afterward? Stash your things in the gear garage at your hotel to maximize your enjoyment of your vacation, and minimize the hassle of lugging around bulky gear.

Nearby attractions include Skiing and Snowboarding at Vail and Beaver Creek, Mountain Biking in Eagle’s Nest, and Fishing at Sylvan Lake State Park. 

Vail Mountain stands as an iconic winter destination renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding. Boasting over 5,200 acres of skiable terrain, Vail offers something for every level of enthusiast, from gentle groomed slopes for beginners to challenging bowls and powder-filled glades for the seasoned experts.  

Sylvan Lake State Park. | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

Eagle's Nest, a mountain biking paradise situated near Edwards, lures riders with an extensive network of thrilling trails amidst breathtaking alpine scenery. The area offers an array of trails suitable for riders of all skill levels, ranging from smooth beginner-friendly paths to challenging downhill descents that test the skills of seasoned riders. The adventurous can embark on the Two Elk Trail, a legendary 15-mile singletrack journey, known for its diversity of terrain and stunning vistas. For those seeking a more leisurely ride, the Eagle's Loop Trail showcases the region's natural beauty while providing a relaxing and enjoyable biking experience. With its endless options and picturesque landscapes, Eagle's Nest is a mountain biking haven that promises an exhilarating and memorable ride for all cyclists.

For anglers seeking a serene fishing experience, Sylvan Lake State Park offers a peaceful oasis just a short drive from Edwards. Set against a backdrop of the magnificent White River National Forest, Sylvan Lake is a picturesque alpine gem known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant trout. The park provides fishing enthusiasts with ample opportunities to cast their lines and unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings. Whether you prefer fly fishing from the shore or paddling out on a boat to find the perfect spot, Sylvan Lake's pristine waters and idyllic ambiance make for an unforgettable fishing excursion. Beyond fishing, the park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities, inviting visitors to savor the natural beauty and quietude of this hidden mountain gem.

Planning your mountain vacation, a gear garage is a must. A gear garage offers a stress-free solution for storing your outdoor equipment, so you can focus on savoring the natural beauty and thrilling adventures that await you in our stunning mountain town, or wherever you choose to go. Whether you're a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a beginner eager to try something new, a gear garage ensures that your equipment is secure and readily available for your mountain adventures.