Jessica ZanderWhether you’re a fan of the cold season or not, hardly anybody enjoys the daily chore of clearing their driveway. However, the best snow blower for steep driveway can do it for you without any tussle. If you have a wide driveway or patio to clear, though, you should invest in a high-quality snow blower.
This article covers the 7 best snow blower types along with their specs, pros, and cons to help you out in selecting the best one for you. Furthermore, you will have an insight into what to look for before buying the snow blower.
Has snow gathered around your home? No need to worry, we provide the best solution based on your needs. Let’s dive in!
Contents
Why You Should Trust Us
Over the course of several seasons and in a variety of locations, we have put the best snow blowers through their paces. During the period that we had snow blowers, we put in countless hours running them, both for the purpose of clearing snow from our own remote property and for the purpose of cleaning up construction sites.
Because snow blowers are intricate equipment that comes with a lot of features, in order to have a better understanding of the specifics, we consulted with highly qualified professionals and went to an independent website that was dedicated to discussing all aspects of snow blowers.
Over the course of our many years of experience with the best snow blowers, we have acquired a sufficient level of knowledge. We also talked to high-end experts in order to obtain in-depth information on the technical specifications of select models.
In addition, we spent hours poring through reviews of various snow blowers, reading anything we could get our hands on snow removal equipment. When doing research and evaluating several models, we discovered that the website of the store Snow Blowers Direct was helpful.
How We Tested the Best Snow Blowers
Even though there is a wide selection of high-quality snow blowers available today, not all of them are designed to effectively remove snow from steep driveways.
When compiling our list of the most effective steep snow blowers, we restricted our choices to machines that are optimally suited to clearing snow from gravel surfaces.
Most of these options are for two-stage snow blowers, which, in contrast to single-stage versions, offer sufficient space between the auger and the ground. This prevents the machine from picking up and blowing gravel, which is a common problem.
In addition to the kind of snow blower, we searched for models that had features that made them simpler to operate, such as heated handles, push-button starters, self-propelled wheels, and the option to adjust the direction of the chute while it is in use.
Types of Snow Blowers
First, let’s tackle the most important stuff; Single-stage, two-stage, and three-stage snow blowers are the most common. Take a look below for an explanation.
Single-Stage Snow Blowers
These snow blowers are very small in size. The snow is pumped in using an auger. Due to the dual role of the auger in feeding and releasing, these devices are limited to light-duty snow disposal.
Furthermore, heavy snow is difficult for single-stage blowers since they are not built to shatter the snow.
When Are Single-Stage Snow Blowers Best?
These are optimal for lightweight, fluffy snow up to 8 inches deep but just adequate for heavier, denser snow. Its low cost is its main selling factor. These are often less expensive than their 2- and 3-stage counterparts.
Two-Stage Snow Blowers
You can think of these as your more powerful tools. The first stage consists of the front (typically serrated) auger, which is in charge of chopping up the snow and feeding the second stage. In the second phase, the snow is pushed through the chute by an agitator.
When Are 2 Stage Blowers Best?
Having the snow removal process divided into two stages allows each to deal with a greater volume of snow. There are numerous sizes of 2-stage blowers, but normally they are intended to handle a depth of 12-15 inches of snow.
As an added bonus, these 2 stage snow blowers perform admirably in dense snow, as compared to the light snow that falls during a fresh snowfall.
A two-stage system’s greatest drawbacks are that it’s more costly and less flexible than single-stage systems. But if you live in a region where snow may be over 8 inches thick more than once a year, it’s worth the cost.
Three-Stage Snow Blowers
The 3 Stage snow blowers are the most powerful models. Three stages make up the process: one auger for breaking up the snow, another for feeding it to the conveyor, and a final stage for discharging it.
When Are 3 Stage Blowers Best?
These high-power steering snow blowers are the best of the bunch. Using 3 stage blowers, even the heaviest, most compacted snow may be removed in a single pass.
Due to their high cost, they are best suited for those who regularly face the prospect of thick snow on their gravel driveways. Typically, these are made to move snow that is 18 inches deep and is both heavy and wet.
However, they’re both cumbersome and costly.
Best Snow Blower for Steep Driveway: Our Top Picks
| Preview | Product | Rating | |
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EGO SNT2400 24 in.... | 259 Reviews | Check Latest Price |
Finding a snow blower that can handle the average amount of snowfall, is reliable, and is simple to use is crucial. The suggested model reflects the large range in both variables and snowfall totals. But we put each of the following best snow blowers through rigorous testing to make sure they live up to their claims of excellence and are worth the money.
Troy-Bilt Storm Tracker 2890 277cc
 | Type: | Two-stage |
Clearing Width: | 26 inches | |
Self-propelled: | Yes | |
Length: | 48.5 In | |
Width: | 30.75 In | |
Height: | 33.87 In | |
Warranty: | 2 year limited warranty |
The Troy-Bilt Storm 26-inch snow blower is an excellent option for anyone looking for a versatile snow thrower. This gas-power steering type is adaptable enough to tackle both small and big properties with ease.
It moves forward on its own two driving wheels, and its large, grippy tyres allow it to move with ease on most surfaces. Not to mention, it’s a snap to turn on thanks to the electronic starter.
Using the Troy-Bilt Storm 26-inch was a pleasure overall. In the initial instance, we appreciated how well the thick tyres performed, especially in the granular, loose snow. It was also convenient that we could adjust the chute’s direction and angle from the same panel.
It may not throw snow as far as some other models, but it performs a great job of clearing the snow from the last few feet of a driveway after ploughing. In addition, this model was ridiculously simple to start; it would fire up on the first draw virtually every time.
Who should buy it
Individuals looking to throw snow out of their big or small properties without investing much time.
Ariens Two Stage Snow Blower Platinum 24″ 369cc 921050
 | Type: | Two-stage |
Clearing Width: | 24 inches | |
Self-propelled: | Yes | |
Length: | 58.3 In | |
Width: | 26.4 In | |
Height: | 45.9 In | |
Warranty: | 2 years residential use |
This snowblower is equipped with a 369cc gas engine, so it can easily clear the heaviest snow from your driveway. It may be smaller than others in its price range, but it cleans just as well as any other comparable equipment.
The snow may be easily deflected in the direction of your choosing thanks to its remote chute deflector. Even though it may be difficult to see on normal cold mornings, you may go ahead and start its engine because it has headlights.
The machine’s performance on rough ground is remarkable. The snow blower will function normally even if you use it on an incline.
When there’s a lot of snow, the blower can’t keep up. When using the chute, the equipment becomes jammed. Avoid this by using a spray lubricant while cleaning to reduce friction and wear.
Who should buy it
People who look to remove a very small amount of snow and those who can not afford an expensive model.
Briggs & Stratton 22-Inch Single-Stage Snow Blower
 | Type: | Single-stage |
Clearing Width: | 22 inches | |
Self-propelled: | No, but features auger-assist | |
Length: | 33.1 In | |
Width: | 25 In | |
Height: | 23 In | |
Warranty: | 3 year limited warranty |
Check out the Briggs & Stratton 22-Inch 1-Stage Snow Blower if you need a cheap and effective solution to clear snow from your paved driveway or sidewalk.
This particular model has an electric push-button starter and can plow a path through the snow that is 22 inches wide. The snow blower is pushed in part by the rotation of a rubber-tipped auger.
The handle on this variant is adjacent to a directional crank that allows the chute to be swivelled to either side. The intake tube of a snow blower may still be used to hurl snow up to 30 feet, even if the snowdrift is thicker than 12.5 inches. It works best on paved surfaces like asphalt and concrete though, and not on gravel driveways.
Despite our low expectations, this model surprised us in a few key respects. We were first astounded by the snow throw distance achieved by this Briggs & Stratton, which was on par with that of more expensive models.
In addition to being portable and easy to assemble, we appreciated how lightweight it was. While it isn’t the best choice for tough terrain, it really shines on smooth pavement.
Who should buy it
It is suitable for those whose terrain is smooth. Those who don’t like to carry weight can also buy it.
EGO Power + 24-in. Two-Stage Battery Snow Blower Kit
 | Type: | Two-stage |
Clearing Width: | 24 inches | |
Self-propelled: | Yes | |
Length: | 49 In | |
Width: | 26 In | |
Height: | 45 In | |
Warranty: | 5-year tool warranty |
This two-stage snow blower can clear snow from gravel driveways as easily as it can from a sidewalk or patio. This battery-powered snow blower features a two-stage mechanism that can fling snow up to 50 feet, and it also includes self-propelled wheels, so it’s easy to push.
This type can operate for up to 135 minutes on a single charge. The machine’s 220 pounds of weight is a negative, but the user may lessen their workload by taking use of the 200-degree adjustable chute and the 50-foot throwing distance. The built-in headlights are an additional layer of protection.
The EGO Power+ 24-inch snow blower is highly recommended by us. The first thing that has won us over is how much quieter and simpler it is compared to a gas-powered model (though the throttle and auger controls are reversed from a typical model).
The snowballs from this model were so powerful that we had to be very precise with our aim. We discovered that we could get by with everything on eco and have our batteries last as long as possible, despite the fact that it has a throttle that regulates the total power of the machine from “eco” to “turbo.”
Note that the auger stalled when we buried it too rapidly in exceptionally thick mounds of snow, but this was unusual while operating at moderate speeds.
Who should buy it
Individuals who love to employ staff and machines without breaking a sweat.
Toro SnowMaster 724 ZXR
 | Type: | Two-stage |
Clearing Width: | 43 inches | |
Self-propelled: | Yes | |
Length: | 55 In | |
Width: | 43 In | |
Height: | 25 In | |
Warranty: | 3-year limited warranty |
Toro is another well-known name in the world of lawn care and grounds maintenance due to their dependable and sturdy equipment.
If you need to remove snow from your driveway frequently, the Toro SnowMaster 724 ZXR is an excellent choice. The “Personal Pace” drive mechanism of the SnowMaster automatically adjusts the speed of the machine’s wheels and blades to match your own walking speed; this is one of the machine’s most distinctive characteristics.
It’s hard to find a better snow blower for the ordinary household at this price. It can plough through the vast majority of snowfalls, is durable and simple to use, and can get the job done quickly. Which, if we’re being really honest, is the whole goal of the snow blower — to quickly dispose of snow.
Who should buy it
Those who have a very high budget threshold should buy it due to traction control and fastness.
Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower
 | Type: | Three-stage |
Clearing Width: | 43 inches | |
Self-propelled: | Yes | |
Length: | 48.5 In | |
Width: | 26 In | |
Height: | 21 In | |
Warranty: | 3 year residential warranty/ 1 year commerical warranty |
The more conventional Cub Cadet 2X 26 IntelliPower Snow Blower is a good choice for gravel driveways up to roughly 80 feet in length. This 26-inch model is a nicely executed take on the classic two-stage blower, and it stands out because of its tremendous features and amazing pricing.
However, it is not as quick or as simple as the 824 QXE. It includes huge, 15-inch tyres that help it have solid traction in the snow, as well as power steering, which is a need for a heavy two-stage blower like this one.
This combination of features is generally reserved for blowers costing hundreds more. Our prior recommendation, the Cub Cadet 2X 26 HP, a 26-inch model, is now obsolete for gravel driveways.
More power is delivered to the ground with less bogging thanks to the new model’s digital throttle, which adapts the engine’s output to the current load. This new model costs roughly $100 more than the older one.
Who should buy it
Customers having an 80-foot length of gravel driveways should opt for this model.
Craftsman SB470 28-in Two-Stage Gas Snow Blower
 | Type: | Two-stage |
Clearing Width: | 28 inches | |
Self-propelled: | Yes | |
Length: | 53 In | |
Width: | 28 In | |
Height: | 43 In | |
Warranty: | 3 year residential warranty |
We utilised our trusted Craftsman SB470 two-stage snow blower as a standard against which to evaluate newer versions. This model is already two years old, yet it has performed admirably during every storm.
Even though Craftsman has improved the design with heated grips, we are still confident in recommending this product and would buy it again in a heartbeat.
This model was first selected because its 28-inch chute and 243-cc engine were enough for the typical snowfall in our area. The big, knobby tyres have little trouble ploughing through snow, and the two-stage snow removal mechanism tosses snow far enough to clean roads and pathways.
When it came down to it, we judged this machine based on our prior knowledge of its self-propulsion technology, two-stage snow removal, and general dependability.
Who should buy it
Individuals who avoid the complex starting mechanism of a machine and take time to properly employ the device.
What to Consider When Shopping for the Best Snow Blower
The amount of space needed to maintain the machine, whether an electric or gas-powered snow blower depends on the needs of the property. However, the amount of snowfall in the area may play a key role when choosing snow blowers.
Engine’s Power
A snowblower’s engine is the source of its strength. You must consider factors like driveway size, snowfall, and available time to decide.
Choose a snow blower with at least 300cc of power to efficiently and easily clear a large driveway with a lot of snow.
The ideal snowblower for clearing medium-sized and smaller pathways should have an engine capacity of 200 CC or more. However, unless you want to be dissatisfied with the machine’s performance, don’t get anything with a displacement of less than 200cc.
Stage of Snow Blower
In essence, there are three basic types of snowblowers, distinguished by how they clear snow. Stage snowblowers have an auger that pulls in snow and pushes it down a chute. This kind is the weakest of all the types. You can’t use them on gravel driveways.
Stage two snow blowers utilize both an impeller and an auger. Due to the turbine’s greater assistance, these machines can handle more snow on each pass.
Stage three snow blowers are the most powerful ones. These devices function by utilising an auger, impeller, and extra two 90-degree augers next to the main blade. The rotations occurring at the same time make it easier to shatter ice snow and work with wet snow.
Both two- and three-stage devices work well on large gravel driveways. Stage three snowblowers are the best option for clearing away ice and deep snow.
Speed
There are typically 4-6 forward speeds and 1-2 reverse speeds available on commercially available snow blowers. Faster speeds are far more helpful when dealing with blocked blowers. Vehicles with six speeds can continue working normally even in deep snow.
As an added convenience, ensure sure the machine has reverse speeds. Otherwise, power steering the tractor in the desired direction would be challenging.
Terrain Type
Using a snow blower to clear snow from a flat sidewalk or driveway is a breeze, but pushing a snow blower up a hill may be a challenge for even the fittest of people.
If you need to clear snow off a hill, it would be worthwhile to invest in a self-propelled snow blower. The wheels on this snow thrower model propel it ahead, so all you have to do is steer and follow along. If you have gravel driveways and need to clear the snow, you should use a two-stage or three-stage snow blower to avoid tossing pebbles.
Expert assembly options
Even if you consider yourself rather handy, having an extra pair of hands to assist you in assembling a machine that weighs several hundred pounds may be very beneficial.
The snow blower‘s skid shoes, which keep the machine off the ground and away from your gravel driveways, may be fastened securely with the help of this installation. Getting professional assembly is also usually relatively inexpensive, which is a plus.
Adding an expert assembly service to your EGO SNT2400, for instance, will only increase your final price by about 5%. However, talk with the service provider about the specifics, since contracts sometimes include language for an adjusted quote based on the machine’s complexity.
Size and Weight
The lightweight snow throwers are the electric ones, coming in about 30 to 65 pounds, followed by the cordless ones, which may weigh 50 to 75 pounds (though in some cases, much more). Gas-powered snow throwers, the biggest type, may weigh anything from 100 to 300 pounds.
Discharge Shoot Control
The capacity to alter the chute’s trajectory is crucial. The vertical and horizontal chute directions may be adjusted with the flick of a joystick on several variants.
Not like the clumsy joysticks seen on older versions, the controls on more modern models are simple cranks. Make sure the crank is in a convenient spot on the machine if you decide to purchase one with this function.
Fuel
Snow blowers can be powered by electricity, gas, or diesel, just like many other outdoor maintenance machines. There are good points and bad ones to each potential choice.
Electric-powered snow blowers
An electric snow blower is often compact and inexpensive, and it can remove snowfalls as shallow as 8 inches. They will not work without an extension chord being used to plug them into a wall socket. Since this restricts their effectiveness and range, they are best suited for areas with little snowfall and short sidewalks and roads.
Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, an electric snow blower is particularly useful for removing snow from decks and steps. Furthermore, these machines don’t cause any environmental harm or fuel storage issues to arise.
Gas- and diesel-powered snow blowers
These possess far more power than electric blowers and do not limit their users to a shorter working distance. Clearing a gravel driveway of deep, heavy snow is a breeze with this blower, and you can even take it down the sidewalk to do the same for your neighbour’s gravel driveway.
Battery-operated cordless snow blowers
These are fresh to the snow removal industry and show great promise. They work similarly to an electric fan in that they produce no emissions, but without the need for a power cable.
However, despite the great capacity of the battery, most devices can only be used for around 30 minutes before they need to be recharged. By using a replacement battery, many of them can keep going for more than 30 minutes.
Clearing Width and Depth
Single-stage snow blower commonly referred to as “snow throwers,” can clear a path through the snow anywhere from 11 to 22 inches wide. A two-stage snow blower can clear a path 30 inches wide, while a three-stage model can do the same for snow up to 40 inches deep. However, only the single- and two-stage variants are appropriate for private usage. Industrial machinery includes blowers with three stages.
Wheels vs. Tracks
When the snow has melted and refrozen, it can be dangerously slick. In such conditions, even self-propelled snow blowers have a hard time gaining traction, while track-drive snow blowers thrive.
Rather than relying on the wheels alone to move forward when moving through deep or slick snow, track-drive vehicles rely on their tracks to sink in and assist in pulling the vehicle forward.
The pricing is also different: Shoppers should expect to spend between $450 and $1,000 on a gas-powered snow blower while spending $3,500 to $4,200 or more on a track-drive blower.
Additional Features
Extra features found on some of the greatest snow blowers make the job less strenuous and more pleasant. To improve your snow-blowing experience, consider investing in accessories like:
- In the winter, heated handles are a great convenience.
- As a result of the illumination provided by the lights, snow shovelling can begin before sunrise.
- Controls can change the speed at which the self-propelled wheels spin.
- An automatic safety shutdown prevents control failure if the operator lets go of the handles.
- Electric starters do not require the use of a starting handle.
Why Track Drive Snow Blower Is Best for Steep Driveway?
There are two main types of snow blowers available: track drive and wheeled. Most homeowners choose a track drive unit for clearing wet snow from a steep driveway.
Here are a few more arguments in favour of using a track drive machine for this task.
Good Gravel Driveways Traction
Off-level terrain is no problem for track drives. This means that even a tank can navigate off-road terrain such as steep inclines and muddy ditches with ease because of the inclusion of track drives. The same goes for wet snow removal machines.
There can be no wheeled vehicles on your gravel driveways. Even if you use a wheeled unit to clean, you’ll notice that it has a hard time staying steady on the move.
Time-Saving
It may be possible to use a wheeled snowblower on uneven terrain, but it will take a lot of time to get the job done. Here, the fight is genuine.
You won’t be sorry you invested in a snow blower with a track driver since it will work well no matter how your gravel driveway is laid out. You will swiftly and effectively clear the way.
Easy to Control
The control of track drive units is significantly simplified. There won’t be any issues with the blower or the relocation at all, even if you don’t have a lot of experience with similar machines. You can get the chores done quickly because of how easily you can move around in it.
FAQ
Do snow blowers work on steep driveways?
Indeed! But not all of them. If you have a steep driveway then two-stage snow blowers are an ideal choice to go with.
What is the best snow blower for a large driveway?
The Briggs & Stratton snow blower is the best pick for large driveways. It offers a lot of flexibility and ease in snow chute control.
How deep is too deep for a snowblower?
Most single-stage snow blowers can’t handle snow deeper than 9 inches, and even the most powerful equipment has trouble with snow deeper than 16 inches.
How do you remove snow from a steep driveway?
Gravel, kitty litter, or sawdust can be used to remove snow from a steep driveway. Using them in tandem with de-icers can speed up snowmelt and increase driveway safety.
Can you use a snow blower on a steep driveway?
Affirmative! A snow blower can be easily used on a steep driveway. However, there are a few models that work best and some of them don’t.
Conclusion
You don’t buy a snow blower very frequently since it takes a significant time commitment. With any luck, the information presented here will aid you in locating the finest snow blower for steep driveways that can handle your snow removal needs.
Consider the blower’s longevity with its features and engine power steering, especially if you plan on using it frequently to chip away at the ice and move large quantities of snow. Instead of opting for the cheapest option, you should spend freely on a high-quality, powerful machine that can handle the level of dirtiness in your home.
Do you know any of the best snow blowers that we missed? Tell us in the comment section below or you can also share the experiences you have had while using it!
I've been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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Hello! I’m Jessica Zander, a garden coach and consultant based in the Boston area (zone 6b), offering virtual consultations across the country and Canada.
I’ve been passionate about gardening since the early 1990s, and in 2022, I launched You Can Do It Gardening to empower individuals to feel more confident in their gardening endeavors.
Following a 30-year career in nonprofit finance and operations, I transitioned out of that field in mid-June of 2023 due to the growing demand for coaching services. Interestingly, my years of presenting financial statements to boards and finance committees proved to be valuable experience for teaching people about gardening! I enjoy sharing skills, providing guidance and suggestions, and collaborating efficiently with clients to make significant improvements to their outdoor spaces, both small and large. I also regularly teach at the Arlington Continuing Education and Cambridge Adult Education.
My approach is direct and practical, akin to Mary Poppins, but tailored to your garden. Clients find satisfaction in saving money and taking pride in their own gardening achievements.
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