Gravel Depth by Project
| Project | Recommended Depth | Gravel Type |
|---|---|---|
| Driveway (base layer) | 6–8 inches | #57 or crushed stone |
| Driveway (top layer) | 2–4 inches | Pea gravel or crushed granite |
| Walkway / path | 2–3 inches | Pea gravel or river rock |
| Drainage / French drain | 12+ inches | #57 stone or washed gravel |
| Landscaping border | 2–3 inches | River rock or decorative stone |
| Playground | 6–9 inches | Pea gravel (2–3" size) |
How Many Tons in a Yard of Gravel?
One cubic yard of typical crushed stone or gravel weighs approximately 1.4–1.5 tons, depending on stone type and moisture. Landscaping suppliers price gravel by the ton for bulk delivery and by the bag for small quantities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many tons of gravel do I need for a driveway?+
A standard 2-car driveway (20 ft wide × 50 ft long) at 4-inch depth needs about 12.3 cubic yards or roughly 18 tons of gravel. Add 10% for compaction and settling. Use our calculator above for your exact dimensions.
How deep should gravel be for a driveway?+
For a new gravel driveway, use 4–6 inches of compacted base gravel (#21 or #57 stone) topped with 2–4 inches of pea gravel or crushed stone surface. Total depth of 6–8 inches is standard for passenger vehicles.
How much area does a ton of gravel cover?+
One ton of gravel covers approximately 100 sq ft at 2 inches deep, or 65 sq ft at 3 inches deep. At 4 inches deep, 1 ton covers about 50 sq ft. Coverage varies slightly by stone type and density.
What type of gravel is best for a driveway?+
#57 crushed stone or #21A (crusher run) works best as a base layer — it compacts well and provides a stable foundation. Top the base with pea gravel, crushed granite, or ⅜-inch crushed stone for a clean finished surface.