How to Create a Gravel Path

Gravel paths are perfect for people who need to construct a way through their garden, but don't want to spend the time or money on a complicated stone or cement pathway. Gravel paths may seem loose and flimsy, but if you use crushed, angular gravel, the pieces lock together, creating a very stable surface. There are places where a gravel path is not the best fit -- for example, anywhere you'll be shoveling in the winter -- as the rocks will end up all over your yard.

Stakes
String
Shovel
Landscape fabric
Spikes or stakes
1-inch crushed rock
Tamper
Rake
3/4-inch crushed angular gravel

Instructions

- 1
  Place the stakes in the ground to mark the footprint of the path. Use string tied between the stakes to help you visualize the path. Make corrections as necessary until you have the path that you want.
- 2
  Use the stakes as a guideline to dig out a 6-inch-deep trench. Square the edges of the path as much as possible, making 6-inch dirt walls along the sides of the path.
- 3
  Tamp down the bottom of the trench, then roll out a stretch of landscaping fabric and place it along the bottom of the trench. Cut the fabric with a knife to get it to the desired shape. The entire bottom of the trench must be lined with the fabric. Push small spikes through the fabric to hold it in place.
- 4
  Install any edging for the path. Edging includes strips of metal or plastic, square-cut stones or bricks. Edging is optional, but if you're going to install it, do it now.
- 5
  Fill the trench with 2 inches of 1-inch crushed rock, to serve as a base layer. Rake the rock, then tamp it down as flat as you can.
- 6
  Add the gravel to the trench, bringing its level even with the rest of the land. Rake the gravel level when it's all in the trench.

How to Edge With Lawn Pavers

How to Lay Pavers to Prevent Weeds

Paving