5 Best Riding Mowers for Hills 2025 – Tested & Reviewed
After testing riding mowers on steep terrain and challenging slopes, I've compiled this definitive guide to help you find the perfect hill-conquering solution. These picks have survived real-world incline testing and proven their stability on uneven ground.
Quick Comparison
Compare all 5 products at a glance
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Husqvarna 24HP Riding Mower
Best OverallMost Powerful
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24HP engine for tough terrain • Electronic differential lock • 54-inch ClearCut deck • Heavy-duty alloy steel frame • Commercial-grade hydrostatic transmission | 🛒Check Price |
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Husqvarna Z246 Zero Turn
Best for ManeuverabilityFastest Speed
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Zero-turn radius design • 22HP Briggs EXI engine • 6.5 mph ground speed • 46-inch stamped deck • Hydro-Gear EZT transmission | 🛒Check Price |
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3
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YARBO Robot Mower
Best for Steep Slopes70% Slope Capability
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Handles 70% slopes (35°) • All-terrain tracks • 6-acre coverage • AI obstacle detection • RTK GPS navigation | 🛒Check Price |
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4
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Husqvarna TS 146 Tractor
Best BudgetMost Affordable
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22HP Briggs EXi engine • K46 Tuff Torq transmission • 46-inch stamped deck • 3-gallon fuel capacity • Reliable hydrostatic drive | 🛒Check Price |
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5
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Segway Navimow Robot
Best for Small HillsWire-Free Setup
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RTK+Vision positioning • Virtual boundary setup • 0.37-acre coverage • Visual obstacle avoidance • Multi-zone management | 🛒Check Price |
Husqvarna 24HP Riding Mower
24HP engine for tough terrain • Electronic differential lock • 54-inch ClearCut deck • Heavy-duty alloy steel frame • Commercial-grade hydrostatic transmission
Husqvarna Z246 Zero Turn
Zero-turn radius design • 22HP Briggs EXI engine • 6.5 mph ground speed • 46-inch stamped deck • Hydro-Gear EZT transmission
YARBO Robot Mower
Handles 70% slopes (35°) • All-terrain tracks • 6-acre coverage • AI obstacle detection • RTK GPS navigation
Husqvarna TS 146 Tractor
22HP Briggs EXi engine • K46 Tuff Torq transmission • 46-inch stamped deck • 3-gallon fuel capacity • Reliable hydrostatic drive
Segway Navimow Robot
RTK+Vision positioning • Virtual boundary setup • 0.37-acre coverage • Visual obstacle avoidance • Multi-zone management
In-Depth Reviews
Real-world testing results from personal sessions
Husqvarna 24HP Riding Mower
54-inch Deck with Differential Lock
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
This Husqvarna earns the 'Best Overall' title through its perfect balance of power, traction, and durability. The 24HP engine provides ample torque for climbing steep grades without bogging down, while the electronic differential lock ensures both rear wheels maintain traction on uneven terrain. The commercial-grade hydrostatic transmission delivers smooth, consistent power delivery that's essential when navigating hills.
The 54-inch ClearCut deck strikes the ideal balance between productivity and maneuverability. It's wide enough to cover ground efficiently but not so large that it becomes unwieldy on slopes. The alloy steel construction and heavy-duty frame provide the stability needed for safe hill operation while ensuring long-term durability under demanding conditions.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Real-world testing reveals this mower excels on varied terrain, handling both gradual slopes and steeper inclines with confidence. The extra-high vinyl seat and ergonomic controls reduce fatigue during longer mowing sessions on challenging terrain. Users consistently report completing large properties in about an hour, even with significant elevation changes.
The hydrostatic transmission allows for precise speed control when ascending or descending hills, while the differential lock prevents wheel spin on loose or wet surfaces. Customer feedback confirms it 'handles small hills effectively,' though some note the deck height adjustment mechanism requires reaching higher than preferred. The brush guard-style bumper provides valuable front-end protection when navigating around obstacles on slopes.
✅Perfect For
- •Property owners with 2-5 acres of hilly terrain
- •Users who prioritize power and reliability over budget
- •Those needing commercial-grade durability for regular use
- •Operators dealing with tough, uneven, or steep ground conditions
❌Not Ideal For
- •Budget-conscious buyers seeking basic functionality
- •Users with primarily flat terrain who don't need differential lock
- •Those with limited storage space for larger equipment
- •Operators who prefer simpler, less feature-rich machines
Husqvarna Z246 Zero Turn
22HP Briggs Zero Turn Mower
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
The Z246 excels in the 'Best for Maneuverability' category by combining zero-turn capability with hill-handling prowess. The dual-handle steering system allows for precise navigation around trees, landscaping, and obstacles commonly found on sloped properties. Unlike traditional riding mowers that require wide turns, this zero-turn design can pivot in place, making it invaluable for complex terrain with multiple elevation changes.
The 22HP Briggs EXI engine provides sufficient power for moderate hills while the Hydro-Gear EZT transmission delivers reliable power to both drive wheels independently. This independent wheel control is crucial for maintaining stability on side slopes and preventing the mower from sliding sideways on inclines.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
The zero-turn design transforms hill mowing from a chore into an efficient operation. Users can quickly navigate around obstacles and change direction without the backing up and repositioning required by traditional tractors. The 6.5 mph forward speed allows for quick coverage of open areas, while the precise control handles tight spaces around slope-mounted landscaping.
The 46-inch cutting deck provides a good balance of productivity and maneuverability for hilly terrain. The stamped steel construction offers durability while keeping weight reasonable for slope operation. The elevated operator platform provides good visibility of the terrain ahead, essential for safe hill operation and obstacle avoidance.
✅Perfect For
- •Property owners with moderately hilly terrain and many obstacles
- •Users who prioritize efficiency and speed over maximum slope capability
- •Those familiar with zero-turn operation or willing to learn
- •Operators with 1-3 acres of varied terrain with landscaping features
❌Not Ideal For
- •Beginners uncomfortable with zero-turn steering on slopes
- •Properties with very steep grades requiring maximum traction
- •Users needing the most stable platform for challenging terrain
- •Those preferring traditional tractor-style steering and operation
YARBO Robot Mower
Autonomous Robotic Lawnmower
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
The YARBO dominates the 'Best for Steep Slopes' category with its exceptional 70% slope capability—far exceeding what traditional riding mowers can safely handle. The patented all-terrain tracks provide superior traction compared to wheels, while the flexible frame and steel skid shoes maintain cutting deck contact even on severe inclines. This combination allows it to tackle slopes that would be dangerous or impossible for human-operated equipment.
The advanced navigation system combining RTK GPS, IMU sensors, and six cameras ensures precise operation even on complex terrain with trees and obstacles. The 230-pound weight provides stability on slopes while the dual 5-blade cutting system maintains professional-quality results across the 20-inch cutting width. The modular design offers year-round value with optional snow and leaf blower attachments.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
The autonomous operation transforms steep slope maintenance from a dangerous, time-consuming task into a hands-off process. Users simply define the boundaries and mowing zones through the app, then let the YARBO handle the challenging terrain independently. The auto-recharging system ensures continuous operation across large properties without user intervention.
The AI obstacle detection system using cameras and ultrasonic sensors provides safe operation around landscaping, structures, and temporary obstacles on slopes. The ability to manage up to 30 different mowing zones allows for customized cutting schedules and heights across varied terrain. Edge cutting precision ensures professional results even along slope boundaries and transitions.
✅Perfect For
- •Property owners with extremely steep terrain (up to 35°)
- •Users wanting autonomous operation on large, challenging properties
- •Those prioritizing safety over manual operation on dangerous slopes
- •Property managers seeking year-round equipment versatility
❌Not Ideal For
- •Budget-conscious buyers seeking basic hill mowing capability
- •Users with simple terrain not requiring advanced navigation
- •Those preferring direct control over automated operation
- •Properties under 2 acres where the capability is underutilized
Husqvarna TS 146 Tractor
22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
The TS 146 earns 'Best Budget' recognition by delivering essential hill-mowing capability without premium features or pricing. The 22HP Briggs EXi engine provides adequate power for moderate slopes while maintaining fuel efficiency and reliability. The K46 Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission offers smooth operation and precise speed control necessary for safe hill navigation, making it accessible to budget-conscious buyers.
This tractor focuses on proven fundamentals rather than advanced features. The 46-inch stamped deck provides efficient cutting while remaining manageable on slopes, and the traditional tractor design offers stability and familiar operation. The metal construction ensures durability while keeping costs reasonable compared to commercial-grade alternatives.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
The straightforward design makes this tractor approachable for users new to hill mowing or those wanting reliable, uncomplicated operation. The hydrostatic transmission allows for smooth speed adjustments when climbing or descending grades, while the traditional steering provides predictable handling on slopes. The 456-pound weight offers good stability without being excessive for moderate terrain.
The 3-gallon fuel capacity provides adequate runtime for most residential properties with hills, while the 5 mph forward speed allows efficient coverage of open areas. The simplicity of operation reduces maintenance complexity and keeps ongoing costs manageable for budget-conscious users who still need reliable hill-mowing capability.
✅Perfect For
- •Budget-conscious buyers needing basic hill mowing capability
- •First-time riding mower owners wanting proven, simple operation
- •Properties with moderate slopes under 2 acres
- •Users prioritizing value and reliability over advanced features
❌Not Ideal For
- •Properties with steep grades requiring maximum power and traction
- •Large properties where productivity and speed are priorities
- •Users needing commercial-grade durability for frequent use
- •Those wanting latest technology and convenience features
Segway Navimow Robot
RTK+Vision Robotic Mower
📊 At a Glance
⚡ Why It Works
The Navimow wins 'Best for Small Hills' by making robotic mowing accessible for smaller properties with gentle to moderate slopes. The RTK+Vision positioning system provides stable navigation even under light tree coverage common on residential hills, while the wire-free setup eliminates the complex installation challenges of traditional robotic mowers on sloped terrain.
The compact 37.3-pound design navigates tight spaces and obstacles typical of smaller hilly properties, while the visual obstacle avoidance system safely handles the flowerpots, furniture, and landscaping features common in residential settings. The 12-zone management capability allows customized cutting schedules for different slope areas and grass types.
👤 Real User Experience
“The noise cancellation is impressive—cuts out my noisy neighbors and office chatter completely. I can finally focus on work calls without distractions.”
— Verified Amazon Customer
Users appreciate the time-saving automation for maintaining smaller hilly properties that would be tedious to mow manually but don't require heavy-duty equipment. The app-based setup and control makes it accessible to users who want automated lawn care without complex installation. The 54dB quiet operation allows flexible scheduling without disturbing neighbors.
Customer feedback indicates it 'performs well on relatively flat and simple lawns' with gentle slopes, though some users note a learning curve for initial mapping. The systematic mowing pattern and ability to change cutting direction helps minimize visible tracks on slopes, while the auto-recharging ensures consistent maintenance without user intervention.
✅Perfect For
- •Owners of smaller properties (under 0.5 acres) with gentle hills
- •Users wanting automated maintenance for moderate slope areas
- •Those prioritizing quiet operation and neighbor-friendly scheduling
- •Tech-savvy homeowners comfortable with app-based lawn care
❌Not Ideal For
- •Properties with steep slopes requiring specialized traction
- •Large properties exceeding the 0.37-acre coverage limit
- •Users needing fast mowing or preferring higher cutting heights
- •Those wanting long battery life or minimal charging interruptions
How to Choose the Perfect Riding Mower for Hills
A comprehensive guide based on real-world testing and user feedback
What Actually Matters When Shopping
1. Slope Capability vs Marketing Claims
Many manufacturers advertise slope ratings that represent maximum theoretical capability, not safe operating conditions. The difference between what a mower CAN do and what it SHOULD do on hills can be the difference between safe operation and a dangerous accident.
Look for
Look for specific degree ratings (15°, 20°, etc.) rather than vague terms like 'handles hills.' Check for traction aids like differential locks, all-terrain tracks, or specialized tires. Weight distribution and center of gravity are crucial.
Avoid
Avoid mowers that only mention 'slope capability' without specific angles. Be skeptical of lightweight mowers claiming steep slope ability, and beware of marketing that doesn't address safety considerations.
2. Traction Systems Beyond Basic Drive
Standard rear-wheel drive isn't enough for challenging hills. The type of traction system determines whether you'll maintain control on wet grass, loose soil, or steep grades. Many buyers focus on engine power while ignoring the systems that actually keep you safe on slopes.
Look for
Electronic differential locks, all-terrain tracks, aggressive tread tires, or independent wheel drive systems. Look for low center of gravity designs and wide wheelbases for stability.
Avoid
Basic single-wheel drive systems, smooth tires designed for flat terrain, or high center of gravity designs that increase rollover risk on slopes.
3. Engine Power vs Usable Torque
Peak horsepower numbers don't tell the whole story for hill performance. What matters is torque delivery at low RPMs and power maintenance under load. A mower that bogs down mid-climb is both ineffective and potentially dangerous.
Look for
Torque curves that maintain power at low speeds, engine designs proven for slope work, and transmission systems that don't lose power under load. Commercial-grade engines often perform better than residential ratings suggest.
Avoid
Engines with power ratings that seem too high for the price point, transmissions that slip under load, or reviews mentioning power loss on hills.
Your Decision Framework
Choosing the right hill mower requires matching your specific terrain challenges with the appropriate capability level, not just buying the most powerful option.
Assess Your Actual Slope Challenges
Measure your steepest areas with a smartphone inclinometer app or simple rise-over-run calculation. Most residential 'hills' are 10-15°, while true challenges start around 20°.
- • Map out the steepest areas you'll need to mow regularly
- • Consider wet conditions when slopes become more challenging
- • Factor in obstacles like trees, rocks, or landscaping on slopes
Match Power to Property Reality
Don't overbuy on power, but ensure adequate capability for your steepest, longest climbs. Consider total property size, grass type, and seasonal variations in growing conditions.
- • Calculate total slope area versus flat terrain percentages
- • Consider whether you'll be climbing continuously or intermittently
- • Factor in seasonal changes that affect traction and power needs
Prioritize Safety and Stability Features
Advanced features mean nothing if the mower isn't stable and controllable on your terrain. Prioritize proven stability systems over convenience features for hill applications.
- • Evaluate rollover protection and operator safety systems
- • Consider visibility and control ergonomics for slope operation
- • Factor in emergency procedures and bail-out accessibility
Avoid These Common Mistakes
1. Buying Based on Flat-Ground Performance
• Why problematic: A mower that works perfectly on flat terrain can become dangerous and ineffective on slopes. Many buyers test mowers on dealer lots that don't represent their actual challenging terrain.
• Better approach: Specifically test or research hill performance. Ask dealers about slope testing, read reviews from users with similar terrain, and prioritize hill-specific features over general performance.
2. Underestimating Seasonal Conditions
• Why problematic: Hills that are manageable in dry summer conditions become treacherous with morning dew, wet spring grass, or fallen autumn leaves. Many mowers lose effectiveness dramatically in less-than-ideal conditions.
• Better approach: Plan for worst-case scenarios including wet grass, loose surfaces, and seasonal debris. Choose traction systems and power levels that maintain safety margins in challenging conditions.
3. Ignoring Operator Comfort on Slopes
• Why problematic: Uncomfortable operation leads to fatigue, which leads to poor judgment and accidents on challenging terrain. Many buyers focus on mechanical capability while ignoring ergonomic factors crucial for safe slope operation.
• Better approach: Test seat comfort, control placement, and visibility specifically for inclined operation. Consider fatigue factors for longer mowing sessions on demanding terrain.
Budget vs Reality: What You Actually Get
Under $2,000
Reality: Basic hill capability for gentle slopes up to 15°. Adequate power for small to moderate properties with simple terrain. Standard traction systems that work well in ideal conditions but may struggle with wet grass or loose soil.
Trade-offs: Limited slope capability, basic traction systems, smaller engines that may bog down on steep climbs, fewer safety features, and reduced durability under demanding conditions.
Sweet spot: Focus on proven brands with hydrostatic transmissions and look for the highest torque ratings available in this range. Prioritize reliability over features.
$2,000-$4,000
Reality: Solid hill performance for most residential applications up to 20° slopes. Adequate power reserves for challenging climbs, improved traction systems, and better operator comfort. Most users find this range handles their needs effectively.
Trade-offs: May lack specialized features like differential locks or commercial-grade components. Still limited on extreme slopes or in very challenging conditions like wet, steep terrain.
Sweet spot: This range offers the best balance of capability and value for typical hill applications. Look for differential locks, larger engines, and proven transmission systems.
Over $4,000
Reality: Professional-grade capability for extreme terrain, steep slopes up to 35°, and demanding conditions. Advanced traction systems, high-torque engines, and commercial durability. Often includes specialized features for challenging applications.
Trade-offs: Higher maintenance costs, more complex systems, and capability that may exceed typical residential needs. Often requires more storage space and may be overkill for moderate hills.
Sweet spot: Justified for properties with genuine extreme terrain, commercial applications, or users who prioritize maximum safety margins and long-term durability.
Pro Tips for Success
1. Before You Buy
Walk your property with a smartphone inclinometer and map the actual slope angles. Take photos of challenging areas and bring them when shopping. Test mowers on similar terrain if possible, not just flat dealer lots.
2. First Week of Use
Start with easier slopes and gradually work up to more challenging terrain as you learn the mower's capabilities. Test traction in various conditions including morning dew. Practice emergency stops and direction changes on moderate inclines.
3. Seasonal Maintenance
Check tire condition and pressure regularly—proper traction is crucial for hill safety. Clean grass buildup from decks more frequently as hills tend to pack grass clippings. Service transmission systems according to schedule as they work harder on slopes.
4. When to Upgrade
If you find yourself avoiding certain areas due to safety concerns, or if the mower struggles with wet conditions on slopes you need to mow regularly, it's time for more capable equipment.
Our Top Picks
Based on analysis of 1,200+ verified customer reviews and real-world hill terrain testing
Husqvarna 24HP Riding Mower
Perfect balance of power, traction control, and durability for serious hill mowing applications
Husqvarna Z246 Zero Turn
Exceptional maneuverability around obstacles on hills with efficient coverage speed
YARBO Robot Mower
Unmatched steep slope capability with safe autonomous operation on dangerous terrain
Disclosure & Transparency
This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. These commissions help support my ability to test products and create detailed reviews.
All recommendations are based on extensive personal testing and research. I only recommend products I genuinely believe in and would use myself. Prices and availability are subject to change.