How to Calculate the Amount of Rock to Add in a Path

Mark the area for the path. Using white spray paint (or some other marking tool), outline the area where you want the path. Most paths are three to five feet in width, depending on the amount of foot traffic expected.

Measure the path. Using a tape measure (or a measuring wheel if you have one), determine the length of the path, and take regular width measurements to ensure that your path has a consistent width.

Go get the gravel. If you wish, you can give the dimensions of your path to the gravel supplier, and it will tell you the correct amount of gravel. Otherwise, calculate how much you'll need before you go. You'll want a minimum of 1.5 to two inches of gravel on your path. To calculate the right amount, multiply the length of your path by the width of the path, then divide by six (this is assuming all of your measurements are in feet). This will tell you how many cubic feet of gravel to purchase for a path with two inches of gravel.

Lay the gravel and complete the path. The rest of the path construction process is beyond the scope of this article, but you now know the correct amount of gravel or rock to purchase.