Maintaining an attractive lawn can be challenging, especially if the terrain is sloped. The duty of mowing on hilly terrains can seem daunting and requires a specific type of lawn mower that is capable of handling the task. Ideally, a lawn mower for hills should be powerful, sturdy, and easy to maneuver.
When looking for a lawn mower for hills, the most critical thing to consider is the mower’s stability and traction. A mower with a low center of gravity and wide wheels will provide better stability on hills. Additionally, a mower with a good traction system will prevent it from slipping on the grass, ensuring a smooth and safe mowing experience.
We spent hours researching and testing various lawn mowers to identify the best one for hills. Our top priority was to find a lawn mower that could handle steep inclines and rough terrain without compromising safety or performance. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at the features and benefits of the best lawn mowers for hills.
Best Lawn Mowers for Hills
If you have a hilly lawn, finding the right lawn mower can be a challenge. You need a mower that can handle the inclines without sacrificing performance or safety. Our team has researched and tested the top lawn mowers for hills to bring you this list of the best options on the market. From gas-powered to electric, self-propelled to manual, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
1. SENIX Electric Lawn Mower
SENIX Electric Lawn Mower
If you are looking for an eco-friendly and easy-to-use lawn mower, the SENIX 15-inch 58V Max* electric lawn mower is a great option.
Pros
- The brushless motor delivers smooth, consistent power for even cutting.
- The 6-position height adjustment lever ranging from 1-inch to 3.25-inch allows for flexibility in cutting height.
- The 12 gallon hard top grass bag includes a full collection indicator to let you know when the bag is full.
Cons
- The battery only lasts around 15 minutes before needing to be charged.
- It can be difficult to turn the mower around 180 degrees.
- The bolt used to assemble the mower is simple but useless.
We have been using this mower for a few weeks now, and we are impressed with its performance. The brushless motor provides gas-like cutting performance without the hassle of gas or cords. The 6-position height adjustment lever is easy to use and allows for flexibility in cutting height. The 12 gallon hard top grass bag is a great feature that lets you know when it’s time to empty.
However, the battery life is a bit short, and we found ourselves needing to recharge it frequently. Also, the mower can be difficult to turn around 180 degrees, which can be frustrating when trying to navigate tight spaces. Finally, the bolt used to assemble the mower is simple but useless, and we had to find a replacement bolt to get the mower up and running.
Overall, the SENIX 15-inch 58V Max* electric lawn mower is a great option for those looking for an eco-friendly and easy-to-use lawn mower. With its brushless motor, 6-position height adjustment lever, and 12 gallon hard top grass bag, it is a reliable and efficient choice for small to medium-sized yards.
2. BLACK+DECKER Cordless Lawn Mower, String Trimmer, Edger, 3-in-1 (MTC220), 12-Inch 3-in-1 Mower Only
BLACK+DECKER Cordless Lawn Mower
This is a great product for anyone with a small property and who wants to avoid the hassle of a traditional gas-powered mower.
Pros
- The 3-in-1 design allows for easy conversion from mower to trimmer to edger, making it a versatile tool for any lawn care needs.
- The AFS automatic feed system ensures continuous work without bumping and having to stop, which is perfect for those who want to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
- The adjustable height deck and trimmer, as well as the pivoting handle, make it easy to customize the mower to your specific needs.
Cons
- Although the mower is great for small properties, it may not be powerful enough for larger lawns or properties with hills.
- Some users have reported difficulty with assembly and may require assistance to put it together properly.
- The cutting height may not be suitable for those who prefer a longer grass length.
Overall, we would recommend the BLACK+DECKER Cordless Lawn Mower for anyone with a small property who wants a versatile and easy-to-use tool for their lawn care needs. It’s perfect for those who want to avoid the hassle of a gas-powered mower and prefer the convenience of a battery-powered tool.
3. Sun Joe MJ403E Electric Lawn Mower/Mulcher
Sun Joe MJ403E Electric Lawn Mower/Mulcher
If you’re looking for a reliable lawn mower that can handle hilly terrain, the Sun Joe MJ403E Electric Lawn Mower/Mulcher is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- With its powerful 13-amp motor, this lawn mower can handle even the toughest grass and weeds, making it a great choice for hilly terrain.
- The 7-position height control allows you to easily adjust the cutting height to your liking, giving you complete control over your lawn.
- The detachable grass collection bag makes it easy to dispose of grass clippings, and the mulching function allows you to fertilize your lawn naturally.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the motor can overheat if the mower is used for extended periods of time, so it’s important to take breaks and let the motor cool down if you’re using it for a large lawn.
- The mower is relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
- While the 17-inch cutting width is great for larger lawns, it may be too wide for smaller yards.
Overall, we think the Sun Joe MJ403E Electric Lawn Mower/Mulcher is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable, powerful lawn mower that can handle hilly terrain. It’s easy to use, easy to maintain, and provides excellent results.
4. GreenWorks 20-Inch 12 Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower
GreenWorks Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for an efficient and eco-friendly lawn mower for your hilly yard, we highly recommend the GreenWorks 20-Inch 12 Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Powerful motor for cutting through thick grass
- Adjustable cutting height for various terrains
Cons
- Corded design limits mobility
- Bagging system could be more effective
- Some users report issues with durability over time
We’ve been using this lawn mower for a few months now, and we’re impressed with its performance on hills. The lightweight design makes it easy to push up and down steep inclines, and the 12 amp motor has plenty of power to cut through thick grass. We also appreciate the adjustable cutting height, which allows us to customize the length of our grass based on the terrain.
One downside to this lawn mower is its corded design, which can limit mobility and require some strategic outlet placement. Additionally, while the bagging system works well for smaller lawns, it may not be as effective for larger yards. Finally, some users have reported durability issues over time, so it’s important to take care of the mower and follow maintenance instructions closely.
Overall, we believe that the GreenWorks 20-Inch 12 Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower is a solid choice for those in need of a reliable and efficient lawn mower for hilly terrain.
5. SENIX Gas Lawn Mower
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a lawn mower that can handle hills and rough terrain, the SENIX 21-inch 140 cc lawn mower is a solid choice.
Pros
- The Briggs & Stratton 140 cc gas powered engine is reliable and eco-friendly, while the Prime N’ Pull start makes it easy to start every time.
- The 3-in-1 convertible deck allows you to mulch, side discharge, or rear bag grass clippings, making it versatile for different types of lawns.
- The durable 8-inch front and 11-inch rear wheels provide great maneuverability through rough terrain and uneven surfaces, while the 6-position dual-lever height adjustment allows you to adjust the cutting height to meet the needs of your lawn.
Cons
- At 62 pounds, it’s not the lightest lawn mower on the market, which can make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
- Some users have reported that the grass bag can be difficult to attach and detach.
- It’s not available for purchase in California due to state regulations.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the SENIX lawn mower, and we were impressed with its performance. The engine started up easily and ran smoothly, and we appreciated the low noise level. The 21-inch cutting width provided a large cutting area, and we were able to adjust the cutting height to our liking with the dual-lever height adjustment.
One thing to note is that the assembly process can take some time, so be prepared to spend a couple of hours putting it together. However, the instructions are clear and easy to follow, so it shouldn’t be too difficult for most users.
Overall, we would recommend the SENIX 21-inch 140 cc lawn mower for anyone in need of a reliable and versatile lawn mower for hills and rough terrain. With its eco-friendly engine, convertible deck, and maneuverable wheels, it’s a solid choice for small to medium size yards.
6. BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower, String Trimmer, Edger, 3-in-1, Corded (BESTA512CM)
BLACK+DECKER Electric Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a versatile lawn mower that can handle hills and tight spaces, then the BLACK+DECKER 12-inch 3-in-1 Compact Electric Lawnmower is a great choice.
Pros
- The 3-in-1 design allows you to use it as a mower, trimmer, and edger, making it a versatile tool for small yards and along borders, sidewalks, and flower beds.
- With a gasless 6.5 amp motor and Power drive TM Transmission, it offers increased torque and cutting power at the string.
- The built-in cord retention system prevents accidental cord disconnection, ensuring uninterrupted mowing.
Cons
- The 12-inch cutting width and 1.6 inch cutting height make it suitable only for smaller yards.
- The automatic feed spool may consume more cable than necessary, leading to frequent replacements.
- The attachment part that turns into the mower detaches easily with a light pull, which can be frustrating.
In our experience, the BLACK+DECKER 12-inch 3-in-1 Compact Electric Lawnmower is a reliable and lightweight tool that can handle inclines and tight spaces. We especially appreciate its 3-in-1 design, which allows us to use it as a mower, trimmer, and edger without having to switch tools. The gasless 6.5 amp motor and Power drive TM Transmission provide enough torque and cutting power to handle most mowing tasks.
However, we should note that the mower is best suited for small yards due to its 12-inch cutting width and 1.6 inch cutting height. Additionally, the automatic feed spool can consume more cable than necessary, which can be frustrating. Finally, the attachment part that turns into the mower detaches easily with a light pull, which can be a bit annoying.
Overall, we believe that the BLACK+DECKER 12-inch 3-in-1 Compact Electric Lawnmower is a great option for those looking for a versatile and reliable lawn mower that can handle hills and tight spaces.
7. Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for a powerful and eco-friendly lawn mower that’s perfect for small to medium yards, the Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower is a great choice.
Pros
- The cordless feature makes it very easy to use and maneuver around the yard.
- The 2-in-1 feature lets you choose between mulching and rear bagging options.
- The lightweight design makes it easy to carry and store.
Cons
- The battery life could be longer, as it only lasts for up to 45 minutes on a single charge.
- The grass collection bag isn’t very large, so you may need to empty it frequently.
- The cutting deck is only 16″, so it may not be the best choice for larger yards.
We recently had the opportunity to try out the Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower and were impressed with its performance. The push button start made it very easy to get going, and the lightweight design made it easy to maneuver around our yard. We also appreciated the 2-in-1 feature that allowed us to choose between mulching and rear bagging options to best suit our needs.
One downside we noticed was that the battery life wasn’t as long as we would have liked, as it only lasted for up to 45 minutes on a single charge. We also found that the grass collection bag wasn’t very large, so we had to empty it frequently. Additionally, the cutting deck is only 16″, so it may not be the best choice for larger yards.
Overall, we would recommend the Greenworks 40V 16″ Cordless Electric Lawn Mower to anyone looking for a powerful and eco-friendly option for small to medium yards. With its easy-to-use design and versatile features, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to make their yard work easier and more efficient.
8. WILD BADGER POWER Lawn Mower 40V Brushless 18″ Cordless
WILD BADGER POWER Lawn Mower 40V Brushless 18″ Cordless
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use lawn mower that can handle hills, the WILD BADGER POWER Lawn Mower 40V Brushless 18″ Cordless is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The brushless motor offers 20% more power and extended engine life, making it perfect for cutting through thick grass on hills.
- The smart cut technology delivers additional RPMs automatically, ensuring that the mower can handle any terrain with ease.
- The ergonomic soft comfort grip handle makes it easy to operate the mower for extended periods of time.
Cons
- The charging time for the battery can take up to 60 minutes, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- The mower struggles with thicker sections of grass, so it may not be the best choice for those with particularly overgrown lawns.
- The mower is not self-propelled, so users will need to push it up hills.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the WILD BADGER POWER Lawn Mower 40V Brushless 18″ Cordless, and we were impressed with its performance. The brushless motor provided plenty of power to handle the hills in our yard, and the smart cut technology ensured that the mower never bogged down.
One thing to note is that the charging time for the battery can take up to 60 minutes, which may be inconvenient for some users. However, the 40V batteries provide up to 30 minutes of runtime, so you should be able to get plenty of mowing done before needing to recharge.
Overall, we think the WILD BADGER POWER Lawn Mower 40V Brushless 18″ Cordless is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use lawn mower for hills. With its ergonomic handle and powerful motor, it’s sure to make your yard work a breeze.
9. American Lawn Mower Company Push Reel Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company Push Reel Lawn Mower
If you’re looking for an environment-friendly alternative to gas-powered lawn mowers, the American Lawn Mower Company Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option. While it may require manual power to operate, it’s lightweight and easy to use, making it a smart choice for youths over the age of 13 and compact yards.
Pros
- The mower is pollution-free and noise-free, making it an eco-friendly option.
- It’s low maintenance and hassle-free, and only requires sharpening once every 3-5 years.
- The mower is capable of cutting grass up to 4 inches tall, and provides a precise scissor-like motion that won’t shred your grass.
Cons
- The mower is powered by manpower, so it may require more physical effort to operate.
- It’s best used on grasses no longer than 3 to 4 inches high.
- The mower may require regular lubrication of the bearings and blades with WD-40 for optimal performance.
We’ve found that the American Lawn Mower Company Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining a well-manicured lawn. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, and its precise scissor-like motion ensures that your grass won’t be shredded. While it may require manual power to operate, it’s a great way to get some exercise while taking care of your lawn.
The mower features a 5-blade reel with a cutting width of 16” and durable 10” polymer wheels for maximum maneuverability. Its adjustable blade height of 0.5”-2.5” with scissor action cut ensures that you can customize the cut to your liking. The manual grass cutter blades are made of heat-treated alloy steel that stays sharp for years, and the reel and blades are constructed from tempered alloy steel and held in place by an unbreakable steel plate.
Overall, the American Lawn Mower Company Push Reel Lawn Mower is a great option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and get a good workout while taking care of their lawn. Its low maintenance and eco-friendly design make it a smart choice for those who want to save on fuel, maintenance, and repairs.
10. Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch, YF22-3N1SP
Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch, YF22-3N1SP
If you’re looking for a reliable lawn mower for hills, the Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch, YF22-3N1SP is a great option. It’s equipped with a powerful Briggs & Stratton 150cc engine and has a 22-inch cutting width, making it perfect for large lawns.
Pros
- The 7-position single-lever height adjustment feature makes it easy to adjust the cutting height from 1.25-inch to 3.75-inch.
- The 3-in-1 steel decking with mulching, side discharge and rear discharge capacity makes it versatile for different mowing needs.
- The self-propelled, rear-wheel drive with variable speed feature makes mowing effortless, especially on slopes.
Cons
- The mower is quite heavy at 85 pounds, which may make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
- Some users have reported that the engine sticker was missing upon delivery, which may be a minor inconvenience.
- The front wheel wave washers may need replacing after some use.
We recently used the Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch, YF22-3N1SP for a large lawn with a few hills. The single-lever height adjustment feature made it easy to adjust the cutting height to the perfect level. The self-propelled feature made mowing the hills effortless and saved us a lot of time and energy. The 3-in-1 steel decking allowed us to switch between mulching, side discharge and rear discharge with ease.
The only downside we found was the weight of the mower, which made it slightly difficult to maneuver around tight corners. However, this is a minor issue considering the other great features this mower has to offer. Overall, we highly recommend the Yard Force Gas Lawn Mower 22-inch, YF22-3N1SP for anyone looking for a reliable lawn mower for hills.
11. American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14″ 11-Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower
American Lawn Mower Company
If you are looking for a planet-friendly and cost-effective lawn mower that is easy to use, the American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14″ 11-Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower is a great option.
Pros
- This corded push mower is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- It has a powerful 11-Amp motor that can cut all types of grasses.
- The 2-in-1 rear discharge and mulching system makes it easy to dispose of grass clippings.
Cons
- The grass bag can be difficult to attach and remove.
- The cutting height adjustments can be a bit finicky.
- The corded design limits mobility and range.
We recently used the American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14″ 11-Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower to tackle some tough mowing jobs with tall grasses and weeds. The mower handled the job with ease, giving us a clean cut every time. The motor is high efficiency yet low-maintenance, providing gas-like cutting power without the need for oil or gas. Additionally, the mower is planet-friendly, emitting no noise or fumes for a better mowing experience.
One of the standout features of this lawn mower is its lightweight and maneuverable design. It is easy to handle and move around the yard, making it a great option for those with smaller lawns or limited storage space. The adjustable handle height and position also make it easy to find a comfortable handling position.
While the grass bag can be a bit difficult to attach and remove, the 2-in-1 rear discharge and mulching system is a great feature that makes it easy to dispose of grass clippings. The mower also has 5 changeable cutting height adjustments from 1″ to 2.5″, although we did find that these adjustments can be a bit finicky.
Overall, we would recommend the American Lawn Mower Company 50514 14″ 11-Amp Corded Electric Lawn Mower for those looking for a low-maintenance, planet-friendly, and cost-effective lawn mower option. However, the corded design does limit mobility and range, so it may not be the best option for those with larger yards or who need more flexibility in their mowing routine.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best lawn mower for hills, there are several factors to consider before making a purchase. Here are some key features to look for:
Engine Power
The engine power is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a lawn mower for hills. A powerful engine will help you tackle steep inclines and thick grass with ease. Look for a mower with a minimum of 14 horsepower for the best performance on hills.
Cutting Width
The cutting width of the mower is another important consideration. A wider cutting width will help you cover more ground in less time, but it may also make the mower heavier and more difficult to maneuver on hills. A cutting width of 30-40 inches is ideal for most hills.
Traction and Stability
Traction and stability are crucial when mowing on hills. Look for a mower with large, durable tires that provide excellent traction on uneven terrain. A mower with a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase will also provide greater stability on hills.
Cutting Height Adjustment
The ability to adjust the cutting height is important when mowing on hills. Look for a mower with easy-to-use height adjustment levers or knobs that allow you to quickly and easily adjust the cutting height to suit the terrain.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when using a lawn mower on hills. Look for mowers with safety features such as automatic shut-off switches and blade brakes that stop the blade from spinning when the mower is not in use.
By considering these key features, you can find the best lawn mower for hills that meets all of your needs and provides reliable performance on even the steepest inclines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best walk behind mower for hills and slopes?
When it comes to walk-behind mowers for hills and slopes, you want one that has excellent traction and stability. Look for mowers with larger rear wheels, a powerful engine, and a self-propelled drive system. The Honda HRX217K5VKA and the Toro Recycler 20353 are both great options that can handle hills and slopes with ease.
How steep of a slope can a riding mower handle?
The maximum slope a riding mower can handle depends on the specific model and its features. However, most riding mowers can handle slopes of up to 15 degrees. If you have steeper slopes, consider a mower with a lower center of gravity, larger rear tires, and a locking differential for better traction.
What is the best lawnmower for rough terrain?
For rough terrain, you want a mower with a strong frame, heavy-duty wheels, and a powerful engine. The Husqvarna YTH24V48 and the John Deere X350 are both excellent options that can handle rough terrain with ease.
What kind of lawn mower is best for steep hills?
When it comes to steep hills, you want a mower with excellent traction, stability, and control. Look for mowers with a low center of gravity, larger rear wheels, and a locking differential. The Cub Cadet XT1 LT42 and the Troy-Bilt Mustang Z54 are both great options for steep hills.
Are there any 4WD mowers suitable for hills?
Yes, there are 4WD mowers that are suitable for hills. Four-wheel drive mowers offer superior traction and control, making them ideal for hills and slopes. The Husqvarna TS 354XD and the John Deere X758 are both excellent 4WD mowers that can handle hills with ease.
What features should I look for in a lawn mower for hilly terrain?
When looking for a lawn mower for hilly terrain, consider features such as a low center of gravity, larger rear wheels, a powerful engine, and a locking differential. Self-propelled drive systems and adjustable cutting heights can also be helpful. Look for mowers with excellent traction, stability, and control to ensure safe and efficient mowing on hilly terrain.