DIY: Gravel Driveway on a Slope

Determine the width and path of the driveway with a tape measure. View your front exterior from the curb to decide if you prefer a simple, straight path from the garage to the curb, or if you prefer a curved driveway to balance the corners of the house. Lay ropes along the intended edge of the driveway.

Dig out the path of the driveway with a shovel. Begin by cutting down along the ropes then work your way to the center. Continue digging until the whole driveway site is 10 inches deep. Consider renting an excavator to reduce the labor.

Mark off the top 10 inches of 18-inch long wooden stakes with black paint. Insert the wooden stakes into the ground with a hammer every four feet along both sides of the site. The top 10 inches should follow the slope of the yard, extending from the base of the foundation to ground level.

Stack two 2-by-5 inch wood boards against the stakes and attach them with a drill and screws. Framing the base of the driveway will insure the depth of the driveway is consistent, offering as much support for vehicles at the bottom as it does at the top of the slope.

Lay mesh weed barrier over the pack helps prevent weeds from developing under the gravel.

Pour 4 inches of pack into the foundation and compact it with a hand tamper. Pack a pre-made mixture of gravel and stone dust that forms a solid base when tamped.

Fill the remaining 6 inches with two 3-inch layers of gravel, working from the bottom of the slope up. Tamp the gravel down between each layer.

Add a stone of paver border along the sides of the driveway so the gravel doesn't overflow onto the lawn.