Maintaining a hilly or uneven lawn presents a unique set of challenges that a standard push mower simply can’t handle. From navigating tricky slopes without losing traction to ensuring a clean cut on bumpy terrain, the right equipment is not just a luxury—it’s a necessity for a well-kept yard. A mower designed for these conditions provides the stability, power, and control needed to make lawn care safer and more efficient.
This roundup focuses on walk-behind mowers equipped with features specifically suited for sloped and uneven ground. We have evaluated models based on their drive systems, wheel design, engine power, and overall stability to help you find a machine that can confidently conquer your landscape. Whether you prefer the consistent power of gas or the quiet ease of battery-operated models, there is an option here to meet your needs.
The Best Walk-Behind Mowers for Hilly Terrain
- YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD
- SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled with 163cc B&S Engine
- SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
- YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower
- Greenworks 60V 17″ Brushless Cordless Push Lawn Mower
- PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
- MightyMow Electric Lawn Mower Cordless, 20V 13 inch Push Lawn Mower
- Greenworks 80V 21-Inch Cordless Electric Walk Behind Self-Propelled
- Husqvarna LC221A 21-Inch 160cc Honda Walk-Behind Self-Propelled
YARDMAX 22 in. 201cc Select PACE 6 Speed CVT High Wheel RWD
For those with challenging, sloped properties, the YARDMAX Select PACE is engineered to excel. Its industry-leading CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) offers superior speed control, allowing you to perfectly match the mower’s pace to your walking speed across uneven ground by simply selecting one of six speeds. This rear-wheel drive system, combined with high, 11-inch rear wheels, provides excellent traction and stability on hills.
The mower’s aggressive, spiked tread pattern on its rubber tires significantly increases grip and maneuverability, preventing slippage on damp or steep inclines. As a 3-in-1 machine capable of mulching, side-discharging, and rear bagging, it offers versatile clippings management. The deck cleanout port also makes maintenance simple, allowing for easy cleaning after mowing.
SENIX Gas Lawn Mower, 22″ Self Propelled with 163cc B&S Engine
This SENIX mower brings dependable power to your lawn care routine with its Briggs & Stratton 163cc 4-cycle engine, known for reliable starts and consistent performance. The rear-wheel drive, self-propelled system helps move the mower forward with minimal effort from the user, which is a significant advantage on sloped terrain. The 3-in-1 steel deck provides mulching, side discharge, and rear bagging options to suit your preferences.
An ergonomic handle enhances comfort during longer mowing sessions, while the integrated washout port simplifies the task of cleaning the cutting deck. For convenient storage, the handle folds down, and the mower can be stood on its end, saving considerable space in your garage or shed. This makes it a solid choice for medium-sized yards with varied topography.
SENIX LSSG-H2 22-Inch Self Propelled Gas Lawn Mower
The SENIX LSSG-H2 model offers a different approach with its front-wheel drive self-propel system, which can provide excellent maneuverability and pulling power. Powered by the same reliable Briggs & Stratton 163cc engine as its sibling, this mower is built to tackle small to medium yards efficiently. The 22-inch cutting width allows you to cover more ground with each pass.
It also features a versatile 3-in-1 cutting system with an included 19-gallon bagger for rear collection. The six-position height adjustment lets you customize the cut length to suit different grass types and conditions. Like other models in its class, it offers space-saving vertical storage, making it a practical option for homeowners with limited storage space.
YARDMAX 21 in. 170cc 2-in-1 Gas Walk Behind Push Lawn Mower
If you are looking for a capable and straightforward push mower for moderately uneven ground, the YARDMAX 21-inch model is a strong contender. It features high rear wheels that help with stability and navigation over bumps and minor slopes. The 170cc engine provides ample power for a clean cut, and the single-lever deck adjustment makes it easy to change cutting heights quickly.
The heavy-duty, 16-gauge stamped steel deck is built for durability. Its MAXFlow Deck Technology uses a volute spiral design to improve airflow, which enhances mulching performance and helps prevent clogging. As a 2-in-1 mower, it offers both mulching and bagging capabilities, giving you flexibility in how you manage your grass clippings.
Greenworks 60V 17″ Brushless Cordless Push Lawn Mower
For those seeking a quieter, emission-free mowing experience without sacrificing performance, the Greenworks 60V cordless mower is an excellent option. Its advanced brushless motor provides superior power and extends the tool’s lifespan, offering consistent performance for tougher mowing tasks. The included 4.0Ah battery delivers up to 40 minutes of runtime, and it recharges fully in just 80 minutes.
This mower is a 2-in-1 design that supports both mulching and rear bagging. The cutting height is easily adjustable across six positions, ranging from 1.5 to 3.15 inches, allowing you to adapt to different grass conditions. While it’s a push model, its lightweight and quiet operation make it a pleasant machine to use on smaller, uneven properties.
PowerSmart Gas Lawn Mower 21-Inch 144cc OHV Engine
The PowerSmart mower is a straightforward and powerful tool for maintaining your lawn. Its 144cc 4-cycle OHV engine is designed for strong, reliable power and features an auto-choke system for easier starting. The all-steel deck is built for long-term durability and houses a 2-in-1 system that combines mulching and bagging capabilities.
With a 21-inch cutting path, this mower allows you to cover a reasonable area efficiently. The heavy-duty blade is engineered for a better cutting effect, ensuring a clean and even cut across your lawn. This model represents a solid value for someone who needs a dependable gas-powered mower for general use on uneven terrain.
MightyMow Electric Lawn Mower Cordless, 20V 13 inch Push Lawn Mower
The MightyMow is an ideal solution for smaller yards or as a secondary trimmer mower for difficult-to-reach spots on your property. It comes with two interchangeable 4.0Ah battery packs, providing a total of up to 40 minutes of runtime. The compact 13-inch cutting deck makes it highly maneuverable around tight corners and garden beds.
This mower features a single lever for five-position cutting height adjustment, from 1 inch to 2.6 inches, giving you control over your lawn’s appearance. It includes a 35L grass collection bag and operates with zero emissions, making it an environmentally friendly choice for light-duty mowing on level to slightly uneven ground.
Greenworks 80V 21-Inch Cordless Electric Walk Behind Self-Propelled
For those who want the convenience of a self-propelled mower without the maintenance of a gas engine, the Greenworks 80V system is a top-tier choice. The high-voltage platform delivers gas-like power for tackling thick grass and gentle slopes. The self-propelled feature reduces user fatigue, making it much easier to manage larger or more challenging yards.
With a 21-inch cutting deck, this mower strikes a great balance between maneuverability and coverage. As part of the Greenworks 80V ecosystem, the battery is compatible with a wide range of other tools. This model offers a quiet, powerful, and emission-free mowing experience, ideal for homeowners who want robust performance with minimal noise and upkeep.
Husqvarna LC221A 21-Inch 160cc Honda Walk-Behind Self-Propelled
The Husqvarna LC221A pairs the renowned reliability of a Honda engine with a robust self-propelled system, creating a mower built for performance and longevity. The 160cc Honda GCV160 engine is celebrated for its smooth operation and dependable power, easily handling varied lawn conditions. The self-propelled drive system provides the necessary assistance to navigate hilly sections of your yard.
This mower is designed with user comfort and effective cutting in mind. It features a durable steel deck and adjustable cutting heights to suit different grass types. Husqvarna’s reputation for building durable outdoor power equipment means this mower is engineered to be a long-lasting and valuable partner for maintaining a beautiful lawn on challenging terrain.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Walk Behind Mower for Hilly Uneven Lawns
When I’m looking at the best walk behind mowers for hilly uneven lawns, my first stop is always the engine. You need serious power to tackle inclines without stalling or bogging down. I look for engines with high torque, which is more important than just raw horsepower for climbing hills. A mower that struggles on a slope is not just frustrating; it can be unsafe. For gas models, I prefer engines in the 190cc to 220cc range as a solid starting point for challenging terrain.
Next, I consider the mower’s weight and deck construction. This might seem counterintuitive, but a heavier mower can be better for hills. A robust, steel deck adds weight down low, which improves stability and traction, reducing the chance of tipping on a side slope. Lightweight plastic decks might be easy to push on flat ground, but they can feel skittish and unstable on an incline. I always check the deck material and feel the overall heft of the machine.
Traction is everything. For any significant slope, a self-propelled drive system is non-negotiable. I specifically look for mowers with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Rear-wheel drive provides the best pushing power for going uphill, as the weight of the engine is over the drive wheels. All-wheel drive is the premium option, offering superior grip on uneven or damp ground. Front-wheel drive is common, but I find it less effective for pulling you up a hill.
The type of wheels matters a lot, too. I avoid small, hard plastic wheels. The best walk behind mowers for hilly uneven lawns in 2025 will have large, pneumatic (air-filled) tires. These bigger, softer tires act like shock absorbers, smoothing out bumps and dips in the lawn. More importantly, they provide a much larger contact patch with the ground, which dramatically improves grip and prevents slipping on grassy slopes.
Finally, I think about control and safety features. A mower with a single lever to control both speed and direction is a game-changer. It lets me adjust my pace instantly without fumbling, which is crucial when navigating a tricky hill. I also make sure the mower has a “rollover protection system” or a similar dead-man switch that automatically stops the blade if I let go of the handle. Your safety is the most important feature of all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of drive is best for a hilly lawn?
For hilly terrain, I strongly recommend a mower with rear-wheel drive (RWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Rear-wheel drive is excellent because the engine’s weight sits over the drive wheels, giving them more bite and pushing power to climb hills effectively. All-wheel drive is the top-tier choice, providing maximum traction on all types of uneven ground, including wet or slippery slopes. Front-wheel drive is better suited for flat lawns as it pulls you along but can lose traction on steep inclines.
Are electric mowers powerful enough for uneven, sloped yards?
Yes, modern electric mowers can be very capable. Battery-powered models have come a long way, and high-end ones with torque-rich motors can handle slopes well. The key is to check the battery life, as climbing hills consumes more power. For the most demanding properties, a commercial-grade electric or a traditional gas mower might still be the most reliable option. Corded electric mowers are a no-go for hills due to the trip hazard of the cord.
How important is the weight of the mower?
Weight is a double-edged sword, but for hills, I generally prefer a heavier mower. A machine with a solid steel deck is heavier, but that weight is down low, which lowers the center of gravity and makes the mower more stable and less likely to tip over on a side hill. A lightweight mower might be easier to lift, but it can feel tippy and lose traction more easily on an incline.
What safety features should I look for?
Your top priority should be a dead-man switch or operator presence control. This feature stops the blade within seconds if you release the handle, which is a critical safety measure if you were to slip or fall. Also, look for mowers with a low center of gravity and wide wheelbase for inherent stability. I always wear sturdy, grippy footwear when mowing my own hilly sections.
Can I use a zero-turn mower on a hill?
I am very cautious about using zero-turn mowers on significant slopes. Their design, with castering front wheels, can make them unstable on side hills and prone to tipping. While some are rated for moderate inclines, for consistently hilly and uneven terrain, a traditional walk-behind mower with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive is almost always the safer and more controlled choice.
What is the best cutting system for an uneven lawn?
For an uneven lawn, I look for a mower with excellent deck articulation and large rear wheels. A deck that can flex and follow the contours of the ground will give you a more even cut, scalping less of the high spots and missing fewer low spots. This is one of the key factors that separates a standard mower from the best walk behind mowers for hilly uneven lawns in 2025. A high-lift blade is also beneficial for pulling up grass for a clean cut.