In this article, we tested and researched various snow blowers to identify the best snow blower for gravel.
Winter is a beautiful season, but it can also be challenging, especially if you live in an area with heavy snowfall. Removing snow from your driveway, walkways, and other outdoor areas can be a daunting task, and it’s even more challenging if you have a gravel driveway.
Traditional snow blowers can damage the gravel, and shoveling can be back-breaking work. That’s where the best snow blower for gravel comes in.
A snow blower for gravel is a specialized machine that is designed to clear snow from gravel driveways and paths without damaging the surface.
These snow blowers have special features that prevent them from picking up and throwing rocks, which can cause damage to the machine and surrounding property.
When looking for the best snow blower for gravel, there are a few critical factors to consider.
The first is the machine’s auger type. A single-stage snow blower has a metal auger that comes into contact with the ground, which can damage a gravel driveway.
A two-stage snow blower, on the other hand, has an auger that is elevated above the ground and is less likely to pick up rocks.
Another factor to consider is the machine’s tire size. Larger tires provide better traction on uneven surfaces like gravel, which can help prevent the snow blower from getting stuck.
We considered factors like auger type, tire size, and overall performance to find the top options on the market.
If you’re looking for a snow blower that can handle your gravel driveway, keep reading to find out which models made the cut.
Best Snow Blowers for Gravel
We understand the importance of finding the right snow blower for your gravel driveway. Not all snow blowers are created equal, and choosing the wrong one can lead to damage to your driveway or inefficient snow removal.
After thorough research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best snow blowers for gravel driveways. These snow blowers have been selected based on their performance, durability, and ease of use.
Whether you have a small or large driveway, we are confident that you will find the perfect snow blower for your needs on our list.
1. EGO Power+ SNT2102 21-Inch 56-Volt Cordless Snow Blower
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient snow blower for gravel, the EGO Power+ SNT2102 is a great option.
Pros
- The Peak Power technology combines the power of two EGO Power+ 56-volt batteries.
- The high-efficiency brushless motor makes this snow blower powerful and efficient.
- The 21-inch clearing width and up to 35 feet of snow-throwing distance make clearing snow a breeze.
Cons
- The batteries may need to be recharged frequently, especially when clearing heavy, wet snow.
- The snow blower may struggle with deeper snow or ice buildup.
- The price point may be higher than some other snow blowers on the market.
We recently used the EGO Power+ SNT2102 to clear snow from our gravel driveway and were impressed with its power and performance.
The Peak Power technology allowed us to clear heavy, wet snow with ease, and the high-efficiency brushless motor made the process quick and efficient.
One of the standout features of this snow blower is the 21-inch clearing width, which allowed us to clear our driveway quickly and with minimal effort. The variable-speed control also made it easy to adjust the auger to control how far the snow was thrown.
The snow blower is also equipped with LED headlights, which came in handy when we were clearing snow in the early morning or late evening. And when we were finished, the quick-fold handle made it easy to store the snow blower in our garage.
Overall, we highly recommend the EGO Power+ SNT2102 for anyone in need of a powerful and efficient snow blower for gravel.
While it may be pricier than some other options on the market, the power and performance make it well worth the investment.
If you’re looking for a powerful snow blower that’s easy to use and doesn’t require gasoline, the WORX 40V 20″ Cordless Snow Blower Power Share with Brushless Motor is a great option.
Pros
- With two Power Share batteries, this snow blower provides gas-like power without the drawbacks of using gasoline.
- The single-stage rotary auger gives it the force to grind through compacted snow and ice like larger blowers but in a smaller, maneuverable design.
- The high-efficiency brushless motor generates more power yet uses less battery than motors based on a brush design, and it has a longer lifespan too.
Cons
- The batteries may not last as long as expected, especially when used in very cold temperatures.
- The snow blower may not be as effective on very wet or heavy snow.
- The chute deflector may need to be adjusted frequently to ensure the snow is blowing where you want it to go.
We recently tested out this snow blower and were impressed with its power and ease of use. The two Power Share batteries provide plenty of power to clear a 20″ wide path of snow that’s 10″ deep and blow it up to 20 feet away.
The rotary auger easily grinds through compacted snow and ice, and the brushless motor wastes less energy, which extends the life of the blower while improving performance.
The chute rotates 180°, and the chute deflector is easily adjustable, so you can blow snow where you’d like it to go.
The dual LED headlights are bright and long-lasting, making it easy to work after dark. The handle collapses for easy storage or transport, and the grip is comfortable, even when you’re using it for a while.
Overall, we highly recommend the WORX 40V 20″ Cordless Snow Blower Power Share with Brushless Motor for anyone looking for a powerful and easy-to-use snow blower that doesn’t require gasoline.
Check out our guide on the best cheap gas snowblower.
3. LiTHELi Cordless Snow Blower
We highly recommend the LiTHELi Cordless Snow Blower for anyone who needs a powerful and efficient snow blower for their gravel driveway.
Pros
- The high-efficiency brushless motor is capable of clearing snow up to 12 inches deep and throwing it up to 25 feet away.
- The battery-powered operation makes it easy to start and operate, and the 4.0Ah battery can support 20 minutes of snow removal.
- The snow blower is perfect for powdery snow, and it comes with a 5-year warranty for the tool and a 3-year warranty for the battery and charger.
Cons
- The LiTHELi Cordless Snow Blower is not recommended for heavy, wet snow.
- The battery life may not be sufficient for larger driveways or areas with heavy snowfall.
- Some users have reported issues with the machine not starting or working in colder temperatures.
We were impressed with the LiTHELi Cordless Snow Blower’s quiet and powerful operation.
The lack of emissions compared to gas snow blowers makes it a safer and more convenient option, and the cordless design eliminates the need for cords or fuel. The snow blower is also lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it ideal for smaller areas or driveways.
The 180-degree rotating chute and 45-degree adjustable deflector allow for precise snow placement, and the two headlights provide increased visibility in low-light conditions.
We recommend fully charging the battery before first use and checking the battery temperature if the machine does not start or work.
Overall, the LiTHELi Cordless Snow Blower is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient snow blower for their gravel driveway. If you need extra battery life, you can purchase a spare battery separately.
4. PowerSmart Snow Blower
If you’re looking for a powerful snow blower that can handle gravel, the PowerSmart Snow Blower is a great option.
Pros
- Equipped with a robust Briggs & Stratton 208CC 4-cycle engine that delivers powerful snow-clearing action.
- Anti-Clogging System that effectively prevents clogs, even in deep snow.
- Platinum Operating System with a heated handle, easy one-hand 180°chute control, and LED headlight for enhanced visibility.
Cons
- Heavy and difficult to maneuver.
- Some users reported issues with the forward/reverse cable needing adjustment
- Some users reported issues with the headlight not working
In our experience, the PowerSmart Snow Blower is a reliable and powerful machine that can handle even the heaviest snow.
The Briggs & Stratton engine starts easily with the push-button start with a corded electric starter or with a simple pull.
The anti-clogging system works well, preventing clogs even in deep snow, and the platinum operating system is a nice touch, with a heated handle for added comfort during cold weather, easy one-hand 180°chute control, and an LED headlight for enhanced visibility.
However, the PowerSmart Snow Blower is quite heavy and can be difficult to maneuver, especially in tight spaces. Some users reported issues with the forward/reverse cable needing adjustment, which can be frustrating.
Additionally, some users reported issues with the headlight not working, which can be a safety concern in low-light conditions.
Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful snow blower that can handle gravel, the PowerSmart Snow Blower is a solid choice. With its powerful engine, anti-clogging system, and platinum operating system, it can handle even the toughest winter conditions.
However, if you have a small driveway or need a more maneuverable machine, this may not be the best option for you.
5. Ariens Platinum RapidTrak 28 SHO (28″) 369cc 2-Stage Snow Blower 921057
If you’re looking for a versatile snow blower that can handle gravel driveways and hilly terrain, the Ariens Platinum RapidTrak 28 SHO (28″) 369cc 2-Stage Snow Blower 921057 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The adjustable track positions make it easy to switch between track and wheel modes, so you can easily maneuver on flat surfaces or tackle hills and inclines.
- The Super High-Output Impeller (SHO) increases overall output and throwing distance, so you can clear snow quickly and efficiently.
- The Auto-Turn Steering Technology makes it easy to navigate tight turns and corners, so you can clear snow with ease.
Cons
- At 336 pounds, this snow blower is quite heavy, so it may be difficult to maneuver for some users.
- The price point is on the higher end, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget.
- Some users have reported issues with the electric start feature, so you may need to rely on the recoil start if this is the case.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ariens Platinum RapidTrak 28 SHO (28″) 369cc 2-Stage Snow Blower 921057 if you’re looking for a powerful and versatile snow blower that can handle gravel driveways and hilly terrain.
With its adjustable track positions, Super High-Output Impeller, and Auto-Turn Steering Technology, this snow blower is a great investment for anyone who needs to clear snow quickly and efficiently.
You might also be interested in checking out the comparison guide on snow blower vs plow.
Buying Guide
When it comes to buying the best snow blower for gravel, there are several features to consider. We recommend looking at the following factors before making a purchase:
Power and Capacity
The power and capacity of a snow blower are essential factors to consider.
You will want to ensure that the machine has enough power to handle the amount of snow you typically receive and the size of your driveway. The capacity of the snow blower’s intake chute should also be considered to ensure it can handle the amount of snow you need to clear.
Clearing Width and Height
The clearing width and height of a snow blower determine how much snow it can remove in a single pass. A wider clearing width means you can clear your driveway faster, while a higher clearing height allows you to remove deeper snow.
Consider the size of your driveway and the amount of snow you typically receive when choosing the right clearing width and height for your needs.
Tires and Traction
Tires and traction are crucial when it comes to using a snow blower on gravel. Look for models with wide, heavy-duty tires that can provide good traction on uneven surfaces.
Some models even come with tracks instead of tires, which can provide even better traction in slippery conditions.
Ease of Use
Finally, consider the ease of use when choosing a snow blower. Look for models with easy-to-use controls and features like electric start and adjustable chute direction (check out the differences between electric vs gas snow blower).
Additionally, consider the weight and size of the machine, as well as how easy it is to maneuver.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best snow blower for your gravel driveway and ensure that you can clear snow quickly and easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features are important in a snow blower for use on gravel driveways?
When choosing a snow blower for use on a gravel driveway, look for models with adjustable skid shoes that can be raised or lowered to prevent the machine from scraping the ground. Also, opt for models with wider tires to provide better traction on uneven surfaces.
How do you safely operate a snow blower on uneven gravel surfaces?
When using a snow blower on a gravel driveway, it’s important to adjust the height of the snow blower to avoid picking up gravel.
Additionally, it’s essential to wear proper safety gear, including eye and ear protection, and to avoid operating the machine near people or pets.
Which brands offer the most reliable snow blowers for clearing gravel areas?
There are several brands that offer reliable snow blowers for clearing gravel areas. Some of the most popular brands include Ariens, Husqvarna, and Toro.
Are there specific models of snow blowers designed to minimize gravel pickup?
Yes, there are specific models of snow blowers designed to minimize gravel pickup. Look for models with adjustable skid shoes and a larger clearance height to avoid picking up gravel.
What maintenance tips should be followed for snow blowers used on gravel?
When using a snow blower on gravel, it’s important to regularly check and adjust the skid shoes to prevent damage to the machine.
Additionally, clean the machine after each use to remove any gravel or debris that may have accumulated.
Can single-stage snow blowers be effectively used on gravel, or is a two-stage model necessary?
Single-stage snow blowers can be effectively used on gravel, but they may not be as effective as two-stage models.
Two-stage models have larger engines and are better equipped to handle heavier snowfalls and larger areas (check out the differences between a 2-stage vs 3-stage snow blower).
However, if you have a smaller driveway or only receive light snowfall, a single-stage model may be sufficient.