Paver Walkway Base on a Slope: Gravel Selection for Oregon Coast Rain

30×4 ft walkway, 2-ft drop (7% grade), Oregon coast rain. Base gravel choice matters for stability.

Gravel Comparison

Recommendation: ¾" Minus Crushed Rock

• Angular fragments interlock → resist gravity creep.
• Fines (crusher dust) bind when compacted → stable platform.
• Standard for paver bases in wet, sloped sites.

Critical Slope Concerns

• 7% grade = near ADA ramp limit (8.33%). Sand bed will migrate downhill over time.
• Consider: concrete setting bed (mortar) or permeable interlocking concrete pavers (PICP) with open-graded base.
• Or: reduce grade with steps/landings every 10–15 ft.

Installation Upgrade

1. Excavate 8–10".
2. Geotextile on subgrade.
3. 6" ¾" minus, compacted in 2" lifts.
4. 1" coarse concrete sand (screeded).
5. Pavers + polymeric sand joints.
6. Edge restraint: concrete curb or metal snap-edge.

Don't fight gravity with sand alone. Build the base to hold.