Build a Driveway on a Hill

If you need to build a driveway on an incline, there are a few tips that can make the job easier. But keep in mind that during severe weather conditions, an inclined driveway could become impassable no matter what you do if the angle is steep enough.

Poured Drives

If you want to build a driveway with poured or materials, including concrete and asphalt, work from the top of the hill to the bottom. Not only does it allow flow down the hill, but it prevent "pouring yourself into a corner". Gravel can be applied in either direction, but should begin at the delivery point to prevent mixing dirt into the gravel when successive trucks back up for deliveries.

Extremely Steep Drives

For steep inclines, you may want to approach the climb gradually by angling the drive up the hill instead of climbing it directly. A longer curved drive is easier to climb in wintry weather than trying to go straight up the hill. For long steep climbs, consider using a switchback method where the drive forms an "S" as it travels up the hill.

Preventing Gravel Travel

If you have a gravel drive that travels horizontally across the slope, the gravel may have a tendency to "travel" towards the downhill side. If this happens, install a form along the low side to prevent the gravel from scattering down the side of the hill.