Gravel Walkways
Gravel walkways add natural charm to any landscape. Small, smooth stones like pea gravel or decomposed granite work best at 2-3 inches deep over landscape fabric.
Material Cost
$15 – $150/ton
Typical Depth
1" – 2"
Recommended Types
6 gravel types
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Recommended Materials
Smooth and comfortable for walking. Requires sturdy edging to prevent migration.
The firmest option for walkways. Compacts well with a plate compactor for a stable surface.
Small angular pieces provide better stability than pea gravel while still being comfortable underfoot.
Angular alternative to pea gravel — less migration and a firmer walking surface.
Compacts into the firmest walking surface of any loose material. Ideal under stepping stones or as a level path surface.
Premium blue-gray walkway material popular in the Northeast. Dense stone with excellent durability.
Gravel Walkways Cost Breakdown
| Material | Per Ton | Per Yard |
|---|---|---|
| Pea Gravel | $25 – $50 | $30 – $60 |
| Decomposed Granite | $25 – $45 | $30 – $50 |
| #8 Gravel | $22 – $40 | $28 – $50 |
| #89 Stone | $22 – $40 | $28 – $50 |
| Stone Dust | $15 – $30 | $20 – $40 |
| Bluestone | $80 – $150 | $100 – $180 |
Prices vary by region, availability, and order size.
Gravel walkways are a practical and charming addition to any landscape. They guide visitors through gardens, connect outdoor spaces, and add visual interest with their natural texture and satisfying crunch underfoot.
The best gravel for walkways is small and smooth — pea gravel (3/8 inch), #8 gravel, or decomposed granite. These are comfortable to walk on and easy to maintain. Avoid large angular stones that shift underfoot and are uncomfortable in thin-soled shoes.
A typical walkway is 3-4 feet wide with gravel 2-3 inches deep. For a 30-foot walkway that's 3 feet wide, you'll need about 0.75 cubic yards of gravel. Lay landscape fabric underneath to prevent weed growth, and install sturdy edging to keep the gravel in place.
Decomposed granite is the firmest option and works well for high-traffic paths. Pea gravel provides better drainage but shifts more underfoot. Both can be compacted with a plate compactor for a more stable walking surface.
Published February 11, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Gravel Wash Away?
Which Gravel Washes Away?
Gravel can wash away during heavy rains, but proper installation and material selection greatly reduce this risk.
Smaller, lighter gravel (like pea gravel) is more prone to washing than larger, heavier stone (like river rock or #57 gravel). Angular crushed stone interlocks and resists movement better than rounded stones.
How to Prevent Washout
To prevent gravel from washing away:
- Ensure proper grading so water flows where you want it — not across your gravel surface
- Install edging along all borders
- For driveways, create a crown (slight hump in the center) so water drains to the sides
Slopes and Drainage
On slopes, use crushed stone rather than rounded gravel, and consider installing a geogrid (honeycomb-shaped stabilizer) underneath. French drains or swales can redirect water before it reaches your gravel areas.
If erosion is recurring, the underlying issue is usually poor drainage design rather than the gravel itself. Addressing water flow patterns is more effective than simply adding more gravel.
Need gravel for this project?
Find local gravel suppliers with delivery options near you.