How to Lay a Gravel Path

In this video, This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explains how to lay a gravel path.

DIY Gravel Walkway Steps:

1. Lay out garden hoses to represent the shape of the 3-foot-wide path.
2. Use shovel and edger to cut alongside the hoses to mark the walkway onto the ground; remove hoses when done.
3. Dig out 4 to 6 inches of topsoil from within the pathway area.
4. Cut any roots you encounter with loppers.
5. Install steel edging along the edges of path; tap in spikes to secure the edging.
6. Cut slots into 2×4 spreaders to span the path and hold the steel edging in position.
7. Line the excavated pathway with landscape fabric.
8. Cover the landscape fabric with 4 to 6 inches of pea gravel.
9. Smooth the gravel with a garden rake.

Design Tip: “A garden path should take advantage of your environment,” says This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook. He suggests running one by a natural focal point, such as a tree or boulder, or following a bend in a stream. Curves help encourage a leisurely pace and lend a bit of mystery by hiding what’s ahead — and they can also make a small space, such as a side yard, seem bigger.

Pro Tip: This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook suggests using locally sourced stone to minimize transportation costs and your carbon footprint. He also recommends compacting the remaining soil with a hand tamper after excavating, before adding any base material — a step that helps prevent settling over time.