Choose your path. Take a walk across your yard from where you want the path to begin to where you want it to end. The path can be straight or curved—it’s your yard, your choice. Use garden hoses or some ropes as a guide to chart the shape and direction of your new path. Use a measuring tape to determine the width of your path, ensuring that the width stays consistent along the entire length of your path outline. Adjust your guides accordingly from the beginning of the path to the end. Use landscaping spray paint to mark the outer perimeters of your path along each side. Let the paint dry and then put your hoses or ropes away.
Safety Alert!
When planning out your path and before doing any kind of excavating, check that there are no underground utility lines running underneath the site. While you won’t be digging too deeply for this project, it is better to err on the side of caution.
Use a measuring tape to determine the length of your path. This will help you find out how many square feet of gravel to purchase.