8 Best Two-Stage Snow Blowers for Gravel Driveways (January 2026)

Living with a gravel driveway means dealing with a unique snow removal challenge that paved driveway owners never face. That first time you watch a single-stage snow blower launch rocks at your house, you realize the mistake instantly.

Two-stage snow blowers are the best choice for gravel driveways because they have adjustable skid shoes that raise the auger above the ground, preventing rocks from being thrown. Unlike single-stage models that scrape the surface, two-stage blowers glide on skid pads and use an impeller fan to discharge snow through a chute.

I spent three winters researching this specific problem after my neighbor shattered a garage window with a flying rock. After analyzing 8 different models and speaking with gravel driveway owners across snow-belt states, I found that the right two-stage blower makes all the difference.

The key is finding a model with easily adjustable skid shoes, adequate clearing power for your snowfall, and ideally a track drive system for better traction on loose surfaces.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to look for and review the top two-stage snow blowers that handle gravel driveways without turning your rocks into projectiles.

Our Top 3 Gravel-Friendly Picks (January 2026)

Complete Gravel Snow Blower Comparison

The table below compares all 8 models we reviewed, with key specs for gravel driveway performance. Pay special attention to track drive options and engine power when making your choice.

Detailed Gravel-Ready Snow Blower Reviews (January 2026)

1. PowerSmart 24in Two-Stage – Best Budget Pick

The PowerSmart 24-inch two-stage is the most affordable entry point into gravel-safe snow removal. At around $570, it costs hundreds less than the competition while still delivering the essential two-stage design that protects your driveway.

What’s remarkable is the review count – over 2,000 customers have rated this machine 4.2 stars. That’s serious social proof for a budget product. People are clearly using it and finding it adequate.

The 212cc engine is on the smaller side, but it’s sufficient for moderate snowfalls up to about 12 inches. The two-stage system means you won’t be throwing rocks, which is the whole point for gravel owners.

At 143 pounds, this is notably lighter than most competitors. That makes it easier to maneuver if you don’t have power steering, and it puts less stress on your gravel surface.

Electric start works reliably according to reviews, which is crucial for cold mornings. The LED light is a nice inclusion for early morning clearing sessions.

The durability concerns are real though. Multiple users report drive system failures after 2-3 seasons of heavy use. This might be a 3-5 year machine rather than a 10-15 year investment.

Who Should Buy?

This is perfect for light-to-moderate snow regions where you don’t want to spend a fortune. If you get less than 50 inches of snow per year, this budget option makes sense.

Who Should Avoid?

Heavy snowfall regions should look elsewhere. Also, if you’re planning to keep this machine for a decade, the long-term durability concerns are worth considering.

2. Ariens Deluxe SHO 28 – Best for Heavy Wet Snow

The Ariens Deluxe SHO (Super High Output) stands out because of its 14-inch high-speed impeller that absolutely destroys wet, heavy snow. Regular two-stage blowers struggle with the wet stuff that piles up in March, but the SHO keeps launching it 50-plus feet.

What makes this model work so well on gravel is the combination of that 306cc engine and the reversible steel skid shoes. You can raise the housing exactly the right amount to clear your largest gravel while still grabbing all the snow.

The Auto-Turn steering deserves special mention here. At 268 pounds, this is a heavy machine. The triggerless differential means you’re not fighting it around corners in loose gravel – it turns with minimal effort.

Real gravel driveway owners consistently report this machine handles the end-of-drift piles that leave other blowers stuck. The directional snow tread tires grab well even on icy sections beneath the gravel.

Customer photos confirm the build quality is mostly metal construction, which you want at this price point. The serrated steel augers chew through ice chunks without issue.

This is not a budget machine. You’re paying for professional-grade performance. For heavy snow regions with lots of wet spring snow, the SHO engine is worth every penny.

Who Should Buy?

The Ariens Deluxe SHO 28 is ideal for homeowners who get heavy wet snowfalls and have longer driveways (75-plus feet). If you’ve ever been stuck trying to push through wet snow that other blowers can’t handle, this is your upgrade.

Who Should Avoid?

Skip this model if you have a small driveway or typically get light, fluffy snow. You’re paying for power you don’t need, and the 268-pound weight will be overkill.

3. Ariens Compact RapidTrak – Best Track Drive for Gravel

Track drive systems on snow blowers are game-changers for gravel driveways. The Ariens Compact RapidTrak takes that technology and packages it in a more manageable size that won’t break your back or your budget quite as badly as the full-size pro models.

The tracks provide significantly better traction than wheels on loose gravel. Instead of spinning and digging in, the tracks distribute the weight across a larger surface area and grip the uneven terrain.

I’ve seen tracked models climb icy inclines that would send wheeled blowers sliding sideways. For steep gravel driveways, tracks are absolutely worth considering.

The 223cc engine is smaller than the premium Ariens models, but it’s still adequate for most residential needs. You’re giving up some throwing distance (40 feet vs 50-plus on larger models) for better traction.

User reviews from gravel driveway owners consistently mention the stability benefits. No more fishtailing on icy patches beneath the gravel, and the machine tracks straight even in deep snow.

Who Should Buy?

This is perfect for homeowners with steep or hilly gravel driveways where traction is a real concern. Senior users also appreciate how the tracks make the machine easier to control.

Who Should Avoid?

If your driveway is flat and you’re trying to save money, the track premium might not be justified. A good wheeled model will work fine on level gravel.

4. YARDMAX 28in Two-Stage – Best Value Under $1000

The YARDMAX 28 offers something rare in the two-stage market: genuine reliability without the premium price tag. Users consistently report 5-plus years of trouble-free operation, which is more than I can say for some bigger-name brands.

What impressed me most while researching this model is the owner feedback. Real gravel driveway owners mention using this machine season after season with minimal maintenance. That kind of durability matters when you’re making a significant purchase.

The 252cc engine provides solid power for the price. It’s not going to match the premium Ariens models for throwing distance or wet snow performance, but it handles typical winter storms without complaint.

Customer photos show the serrated steel augers doing their job on hard-packed snow and ice. The axe-shaped housing design is a nice touch for breaking through wind-packed drifts.

The self-propelled system with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds gives you good control. You can dial it down for careful gravel work or speed up when conditions allow.

For under $1000, you’re getting a 28-inch clearing width and electric start. That’s the same width as models costing hundreds more. The value proposition here is strong.

Who Should Buy?

Budget-conscious homeowners with typical suburban driveways will find everything they need here. If you want reliable performance without paying premium prices, this is your sweet spot.

Who Should Avoid?

Heavy snowfall regions (100-plus inches annually) might want more power. If you regularly deal with 18-inch plus storms, consider stepping up to a more powerful model.

5. Ariens Deluxe 24 – Best Compact 24-Inch

The Ariens Deluxe 24 packs a lot of machine into a compact footprint. The 254cc Ariens AX engine is the same powerplant found in larger models, giving you serious snow-moving capability in a more manageable size.

This machine really shines when you need to navigate tight spaces. At 32 inches wide, it can fit through gates and between obstacles that larger 28-inch models can’t manage.

The Auto-Turn steering system deserves credit here. Ariens designed it to work like a sports car differential – you barely feel the engagement when turning. On gravel, this means you’re not fighting the machine or tearing up your surface.

With a 50-foot throwing distance, this compact model matches larger machines for snow placement. You can still clear to the sides of your driveway without issue.

The reversible steel skid shoes are a key gravel feature. When they wear down on one side, you simply flip them rather than replacing. That’s a nice cost-saving detail.

Who Should Buy?

This is ideal for homeowners with narrower driveways or lots of obstacles to navigate. If you want Ariens quality in a smaller package, this is your sweet spot.

Who Should Avoid?

If you regularly clear large open areas, you’ll save time with a wider model. The 24-inch width means more passes on long driveways.

6. Ariens Deluxe 28 – Best for Large Areas

The standard Ariens Deluxe 28 is a workhorse designed to move serious amounts of snow. With a 28-inch clearing width and the ability to process 65 tons of snow per hour, this is made for people who face big storms regularly.

The 21-inch intake height stands out – that’s taller than many competitors at this price point. Deep snowfalls that bury other machines won’t overwhelm this blower.

What users describe as the “beast” factor comes from the all-steel construction. This isn’t plastic housing that will crack in cold temperatures. It’s built to take abuse and keep working.

The dual belt drive system efficiently transfers power from the 254cc engine to both the auger and impeller. Fewer moving parts means fewer things to break over time.

There is a known issue with drive belt alignment that some users have experienced. The belt can slip off the pulley under heavy load. It’s worth knowing about before you buy.

Who Should Buy?

This is perfect for large properties with long driveways (100-plus feet). If you want to minimize your time outside in freezing conditions, the wide clearing width helps immensely.

Who Should Avoid?

Small driveway owners will find this machine overkill. The size and weight (over 250 pounds) make it cumbersome in tight spaces.

7. Husqvarna ST430T – Premium Track Drive

The Husqvarna ST430T represents professional-grade equipment that happens to be available to homeowners. The 420cc EFI engine alone puts this in a different class – electronic fuel injection means reliable starting in extreme cold.

The track drive system here is more advanced than what you’ll find on consumer models. Combined with power steering triggers, this machine can handle slopes and uneven terrain that would be impossible for wheeled blowers.

I’ve seen reviews from gravel driveway owners who use this on 200-plus foot driveways with significant elevation changes. They consistently praise the stability and control.

The heated grips are genuinely useful when you’re out for an hour in single-digit temperatures. Combined with the LED headlight, this is designed for serious winter conditions.

At $2,999, you’re paying a premium. But you’re getting commercial-grade durability and features that lesser machines simply don’t offer.

Who Should Buy?

This is for large rural properties, commercial users, or anyone who wants the absolute best regardless of price. If your driveway is 150-plus feet with hills, this machine justifies its cost.

Who Should Avoid?

Typical suburban homeowners don’t need this level of machine. The cost and size would be overkill for most residential applications.

8. Husqvarna ST124 – Best Mid-Range Option

The Husqvarna ST124 brings Swedish engineering to the mid-range market. The 212cc OHV engine provides reliable power, while the 24-inch clearing width works well for most residential driveways.

Husqvarna has built a reputation on reliable engines and durable construction. This model carries that legacy forward with features designed specifically for gravel use.

The adjustable skid shoes are essential for gravel driveway protection. You can set the height to match your specific gravel size and ensure you’re clearing snow without disturbing the surface beneath.

At 173 pounds, this is notably lighter than the premium models while still offering two-stage performance. That lighter weight makes it easier to maneuver if you don’t need the features of larger machines.

Who Should Buy?

This works well for homeowners who want brand-name reliability without stepping up to pro-tier pricing. If you value Husqvarna’s reputation and need a solid mid-range option, this deserves consideration.

Who Should Avoid?

If you need a machine immediately, note that this model has availability issues. You might find it out of stock or facing shipping delays.

Understanding Two-Stage Snow Blowers for Gravel

Two-stage snow blowers are specifically designed to work on loose surfaces like gravel because their augers don’t contact the ground. Instead, the machine rides on adjustable skid shoes that raise the housing above the surface.

The first stage is the auger – those helical blades at the front that gather snow. In a two-stage system, the auger doesn’t contact the ground. Instead, it floats above the surface on skid shoes, collecting only the snow layer.

The second stage is the impeller – that fan-like device behind the auger. Once the auger moves snow back, the impeller accelerates it and forces it out through the chute. That’s why two-stage blowers can throw snow 40-50 feet – the impeller provides real velocity.

Single-stage snow blowers are completely different. Their augers contact the ground directly, scraping the surface clean. That’s perfect for pavement but disastrous on gravel – the auger will scoop up rocks and launch them along with the snow.

For gravel driveway owners, the two-stage design isn’t just a nice feature – it’s essential. The skid shoes create that protective gap that keeps your rocks where they belong.

How to Choose the Best Two-Stage Snow Blower for Gravel?

Choosing the right two-stage snow blower for your gravel driveway means balancing several factors. Let me break down what actually matters based on real-world use.

Skid Shoe Adjustment: The Critical Gravel Feature

Skid shoes are the key to making any two-stage blower work on gravel. These metal plates on each side of the auger housing determine how high the machine rides above the ground.

For loose gravel, set your skid shoes to raise the housing about 1-1.5 inches above the surface. This height allows the auger to grab snow while leaving larger rocks undisturbed. For packed or smaller gravel, you can lower it slightly to about 0.5-1 inch for cleaner clearing.

Look for models with reversible steel skid shoes. When one side wears down, you can flip them for double the life. Some models offer polymer or rubber skid shoes as well, which can be gentler on very loose gravel.

Track Drive vs. Wheel Drive

The traction debate matters for gravel driveways. Track drive systems provide superior surface contact and won’t spin out on loose or icy sections the way wheels sometimes can.

Tracks excel on hills, uneven terrain, and freshly laid gravel. The weight distribution prevents the machine from sinking into soft spots, and the grip helps maintain control on inclines.

Wheels work fine for most level gravel driveways and are typically less expensive. They’re also easier to maneuver on hard surfaces like the garage floor or paved areas adjacent to your driveway.

Feature	Track Drive	Wheel Drive
Traction on loose gravel	Superior	Good
Hill climbing	Excellent	Adequate
Maneuverability	Good	Excellent
Price	Higher	Lower
Maintenance	More complex	Simpler

For steep gravel driveways or areas with frequent ice beneath the gravel, tracks are worth the extra investment. For level driveways in moderate snow regions, wheels will serve you well.

Engine Power and Clearing Width

Engine size determines how much snow you can move and how fast. For typical residential use (6-12 inch snowfalls, 50-100 foot driveways), engines in the 212-254cc range provide adequate power.

Heavier snow regions (12-18 inch storms, wet spring snow) benefit from larger engines in the 300cc plus range. The extra power prevents bogging down in deep snow and maintains throwing distance in heavy/wet conditions.

Clearing width determines how many passes you’ll need to make. For a standard two-car driveway (about 20 feet wide), a 24-inch model will take about 10 passes. A 28-inch model reduces that to about 7 passes.

Electric Start and Cold Weather Features

Electric start is almost essential for gravel driveway owners. You’re likely dealing with colder temperatures than city dwellers, and pulling a recoil starter in single-digit weather is miserable.

Look for models with both electric start AND pull start backup. The electric start will get you going 95% of the time, but the pull start ensures you’re never stranded if the electrical system fails.

Heated grips are genuinely valuable for longer driveways. Once you’re out there for 30-40 minutes, frozen hands become a real issue. The added comfort isn’t just luxury – it affects your ability to control the machine safely.

Power Steering and Handling

At 200-plus pounds, two-stage snow blowers are heavy machines. Power steering makes a real difference, especially on gravel where you’re already dealing with uneven traction.

Ariens Auto-Turn and trigger-style power steering both work well. The key benefit is reduced fatigue – you’re not fighting the machine around corners or when backing up.

For gravel specifically, power steering helps prevent the machine from diving into soft spots. You can make gradual turns rather than jerky movements that disturb the surface.

Gravel Driveway Snow Clearing Best Practices

Using your two-stage snow blower correctly on gravel makes a difference in both results and driveway damage. Here’s what I’ve learned from years of gravel driveway management.

1. Adjust before the first snow: Set your skid shoes correctly before winter arrives. Test on a small area to ensure you’re clearing snow without picking up rocks.
2. Clear snow before it compacts: Fresh powder is easier to move than packed snow. Try to clear during or shortly after snowfall rather than waiting days.
3. Work from the center outward: Start in the middle of your driveway and throw snow to the sides. This prevents re-clearing areas you’ve already done.
4. Take smaller passes in deep snow: For storms over 12 inches, take half-width passes rather than forcing the machine through the full depth.
5. Avoid scraping to bare gravel: Leave a thin layer (0.5-1 inch) rather than trying to clear down to the bare stones. This protects your surface.
6. Watch for hidden obstacles: Gravel can hide stakes, edges, and other items. Go slowly the first pass of the season to identify any hazards.

Timing Your Purchase

Snow blower pricing follows seasonal patterns that can save you significant money if you time it right. The best deals aren’t when you expect them.

The absolute lowest prices occur in spring (March-April) when retailers are clearing out inventory. You can find discounts of 30-50% off, but you’ll need to store the machine for months.

Fall brings moderate discounts as retailers try to move inventory before the season. September and October typically offer 10-20% off plus free shipping deals.

Once snow starts falling, prices jump and inventory disappears. You’ll pay full retail and selection becomes limited. For current snow blower deals, it’s worth checking regularly as stock fluctuates throughout winter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Recommendations

After analyzing all eight models and considering real gravel driveway owner feedback, my top recommendation remains the Ariens Deluxe SHO 28 for most serious snow removal needs. The 306cc SHO engine handles whatever winter throws at it, and the Auto-Turn steering makes a heavy machine manageable.

Budget shoppers should seriously consider the YARDMAX 28. The reliability reports from long-term owners are impressive, and you’re getting full-size performance at a significantly lower price point than the premium brands.

For those with steep driveways or serious traction concerns, the Ariens Compact RapidTrak justifies its track system premium. The stability on loose gravel is genuine, and you’ll appreciate the tracks every time you navigate an incline.

The key is matching your specific conditions to the right features. Gravel driveway snow removal doesn’t have to mean throwing rocks or struggling with traction. With the right two-stage blower and properly adjusted skid shoes, you can clear snow efficiently while protecting your driveway surface.