Mowing a sloped or hilly yard presents a unique set of challenges. A standard push mower can turn this routine chore into a strenuous workout, while stability and traction become major concerns for both safety and lawn quality. The right equipment makes all the difference, transforming a difficult task into a manageable one.
This is where self-propelled mowers designed for hills excel. These machines provide the necessary drive power to assist you on inclines, reducing fatigue and improving control. With options ranging from powerful gas models to advanced battery-powered systems, finding the perfect mower for your terrain is easier than ever. We’ve compiled a list of top performers to help you navigate your hills with confidence.
Our Top Picks for Hilly Lawns
- Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
- Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
- EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled Cordless Mower with Touch Drive
- AMERISUN 21-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- RYOBI 40V HP 20 in. Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
- Makita 36V 21″ Self Propelled Lawn Mower Kit
- Snapper XD 82V MAX 21″ Self-Propelled Mower
- Toro Recycler 22″ Personal Pace Gas Mower
Greenworks 40V 21-Inch Self-Propelled Mower
This Greenworks model is a strong entry-level option for tackling hills without the hassle of gas or cords. Its rear-wheel-drive system increases traction on uneven or sloped terrain, providing the necessary assist to make mowing easier. The 40V 6.0Ah battery offers up to 60 minutes of runtime, sufficient for many medium-sized yards.
The durable 21-inch steel deck handles large areas efficiently. A significant space-saving benefit is its ability to be stored vertically, requiring 70% less floor space in your shed or garage. For those seeking a capable, quiet, and low-maintenance electric mower for moderate hills, this is a practical choice.
Greenworks 80V 21″ Self-Propelled Cordless Lawn Mower
For more demanding properties, the Greenworks 80V system delivers greater power and runtime. This mower is built to handle up to half an acre on a single charge, making it suitable for larger hilly lawns. The brushless motor provides robust torque for consistent cutting performance and a longer operational life.
Like its 40V sibling, it features a self-propelled rear-wheel drive with variable speed control. This allows you to precisely match the mower’s pace to the incline and your walking speed for optimal control on slopes. The durable steel deck and compatibility with a wide range of Greenworks 80V tools add to its value.
EGO POWER+ Self-Propelled Cordless Mower with Touch Drive
The EGO POWER+ LM2134SP stands out with its innovative Touch Drive technology. This system puts speed control in the palm of your hand on the handle, allowing for intuitive and immediate adjustments—a major advantage when navigating changing slopes. The Select Cut multi-blade system also lets you customize cut quality for your specific grass type.
With two included 56V 6.0Ah batteries, this mower offers an impressive runtime of up to 100 minutes, easily covering large, challenging landscapes. The combination of ample power, advanced drive control, and long runtime makes it a premium solution for serious hilly terrain.
AMERISUN 21-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
For those who prefer traditional gas power, the AMERISUN mower provides consistent performance without runtime limits. Its 170cc 4-stroke engine offers reliable power to cut through thick grass on inclines. The high-wheel design, with 10-inch rear and 7-inch front wheels, improves mobility over rough and uneven ground commonly found on slopes.
This mower includes a versatile 3-in-1 system for mulching, bagging, or side discharge. The self-propelled drive assists with forward motion, reducing operator effort on hills. It is a solid, value-oriented gas-powered choice for medium to large yards with varied terrain.
RYOBI 40V HP 20 in. Self-Propelled Lawn Mower
RYOBI’s 40V HP mower combines a brushless motor with intelligent load-sensing technology. This system automatically adjusts power output based on grass thickness, which is particularly useful on hills where grass density can vary. The self-propelled rear-wheel drive provides steady assistance across your yard.
Its 20-inch steel deck features a 3-in-1 capability for flexible grass management. As part of the RYOBI 40V ecosystem, the battery is interchangeable with many other tools. This mower is designed for a smooth, efficient mowing experience with reduced physical strain on challenging terrain.
Makita 36V 21″ Self Propelled Lawn Mower Kit
The Makita XML08PT1 uses a unique 18V X2 (36V) LXT platform, powered by four included 5.0Ah batteries. This four-bay system provides extended runtime, making it capable of handling larger properties with hills. The variable speed self-propelled drive ranges from 1.5 to 3 MPH for controlled mowing on inclines.
This mower is an excellent option for users already invested in the Makita LXT tool ecosystem, as it shares the same battery platform. The brushless motor ensures efficiency and durability. The substantial runtime from the four-battery setup minimizes interruptions during big mowing jobs.
Snapper XD 82V MAX 21″ Self-Propelled Mower
Snapper’s XD 82V MAX cordless mower brings high-voltage performance to hilly lawns. The 82V battery system is designed to deliver strong, consistent power for demanding cutting conditions and self-propelled operation on slopes. It offers a gas-alternative experience with quiet, emission-free operation.
This mower features a 21-inch deck and is built with the durability expected from the Snapper brand. The self-propelled function provides necessary traction and forward assist, reducing user effort. It is a compelling choice for those seeking maximum battery power for large or tough terrain.
Toro Recycler 22″ Personal Pace Gas Mower
The Toro Recycler with Personal Pace is a highly regarded gas mower for all terrains, including hills. The innovative Personal Pace system automatically matches the mower’s speed to your walking pace—the faster you walk, the faster it goes. This intuitive control is invaluable for maintaining stability and rhythm on slopes.
Its 22-inch cutting path and efficient Recycler mulching system are complemented by the SmartStow feature, which allows for vertical, compact storage without leaking oil or gas. For users who want a proven, responsive gas mower that simplifies mowing on varied inclines, the Toro Personal Pace is a top contender.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mower for Hills
If you’re dealing with a sloped yard, you know a regular push mower just won’t cut it. Your arms and back will be screaming for mercy. That’s where a good self-propelled mower for hills comes in, but you can’t just grab any model off the shelf. I’ve learned through trial and error (and a lot of sweat) that a few key features make all the difference on an incline.
First, let’s talk about the drive system. This is the most important part. For hills, you want a mower with a rear-wheel drive (RWD) system. Why? Because the rear wheels provide the pulling power. When you’re going uphill, your weight shifts back, giving the drive wheels more traction. Front-wheel drive models are better for flat lawns and pulling, but they can lose grip and slip when climbing. Some high-end models even offer all-wheel drive (AWD), which is the ultimate for serious, uneven slopes, as power goes to all four wheels.
Next, check the engine power. Hills demand more work, so don’t skimp here. Look for an engine with at least 190cc to 200cc. More power means the mower won’t bog down in thick grass on an incline. A variable speed control is also a game-changer. Being able to dial down the speed on a steep or tricky section gives you much more control and safety compared to a simple single-speed or fixed-setting model.
Now, consider the deck material and cutting width. A stamped steel deck is common and affordable, but a reinforced or fabricated steel deck is more durable and resists bending, which is good for rougher terrain. For cutting width, a wider deck (21 or 22 inches) covers more ground quickly, but a narrower one (19 or 20 inches) can be easier to maneuver on tight slopes or around obstacles. Think about your yard’s layout.
Finally, look at the weight and wheel size. It might seem counterintuitive, but a heavier mower can sometimes offer better stability on a hill. More importantly, look for large, high-traction wheels, especially on the drive axle. Taller wheels (8 inches or more in rear) roll over bumps and dips more easily and maintain better contact with the ground. A good personal pace or smart drive system that matches your walking speed is the cherry on top, making the whole job feel less like a battle. Taking the time to find the right self-propelled lawn mower for hills will save you so much effort every single time you mow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rear-wheel drive really necessary for mowing hills?
In my experience, yes, it’s the best choice for most people with slopes. Rear-wheel drive provides pulling power from the back, which is where your weight shifts when going uphill. This gives the wheels better traction to climb without slipping. Front-wheel drive mowers are better for flat yards where you need to pull the mower around obstacles. For very severe or uneven hills, an all-wheel-drive model is worth the investment for maximum grip.
How steep of a hill can a self-propelled mower handle?
There’s no single answer, as it depends on the mower’s power, drive type, tire traction, and even grass conditions. Most manufacturers recommend not using a mower on slopes greater than 15-20 degrees. A good rule of thumb I use is: if you can walk up it comfortably without slipping, a quality RWD or AWD mower can probably handle it. Always mow across the slope (side-to-side), never straight up and down, for safety. When in doubt, consult your mower’s manual for its specific slope rating.
What’s the benefit of a variable speed control on a hill?
Variable speed control is a huge help for safety and control. On a steep section, you can slow the mower’s forward pace to a crawl, allowing you to maintain firm footing and react carefully. On flatter sections or gentle slopes, you can speed up to save time. It lets you adapt to the changing terrain of your yard on the fly, rather than being stuck with one pace that’s either too fast for the hill or too slow for the flat areas.
Should I get electric or gas for a hilly lawn?
This is a big debate. Gas mowers traditionally offer more raw power and runtime, which is helpful for tackling thick grass on an incline without worrying about a battery dying. However, modern battery-powered mowers with high-voltage systems (40V or higher) are very powerful and much quieter and easier to maintain. For a large, very steep hill, a robust gas or commercial-grade battery model is often the safest bet. For moderate slopes, a strong battery mower can be a fantastic, lighter-weight option.
Do I need special tires for mowing hills?
You don’t necessarily need to buy special tires, but you should absolutely look for a mower that comes with high-traction, all-terrain wheels from the factory. These tires have deeper, more aggressive treads than standard smooth wheels. They grip the ground much better, especially on damp grass, which is a common hazard on slopes. Larger wheel diameter (like 8 inches in the rear) also helps roll over uneven ground more smoothly.