Looking for the best riding lawn mowers for hills.
Super stuff, you have landed in the right place online.
In this ToolsGaloreHQ guide, you will learn
- What to factor in before spending your money;
- Deep dive into high quality options;
- My overall #1 rated pick;
- And So Much More!

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Best High End | Best High End | Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverT Riding Mower, (4) 8.0Ah Batteries and (2) Dual Port Turbo Chargers
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| View on Amazon |
Best Budget | Best Budget | Amazon.com : EGO POWER+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower, 42" Deck Cordless Tractor, Includes (6) 56V 6.0Ah Batteries and Charger - TR4204
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| View on Amazon |
Husqvarna TS 146 (46") 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor 960430346
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| View on Amazon | ||
Amazon.com : Husqvarna Z246 (46") 22HP Briggs Zero Turn Lawn Mower 970797301
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| View on Amazon | ||
Greenworks 80V 60" Zero Turn, (2) 12.0Ah + (4) 8.0Ah Batteries + Wall Charger
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| View on Amazon | ||
Amazon.com : Husqvarna Riding Lawn Mower 24Hp 54 inches Deck Differential Lock
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| View on Amazon |
Overall #1 Rated Pick
Updated On July 18, 2025
Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric CrossoverT Riding Mower, (4) 8.0Ah Batteries and (2) Dual Port Turbo Chargers
If you're tackling hilly terrain and want a reliable mowing solution, the Greenworks 60V 42” Cordless Electric Riding Mower is an excellent choice.
With its 24 HP equivalent power and brushless motor, you’ll enjoy cleaner cuts and impressive torque. The adjustable cutting height ranges from 1.5 to 4.5 inches, ensuring you can tackle thick grass effectively.
Its “Mow, Swap, and Go” feature allows you to cover up to 1.5 acres, while the 42-inch cutting width makes quick work of your lawn. Plus, it's 4x quieter than gas mowers, bringing peace to your mowing experience.
Best For: Those seeking a powerful, quiet, and efficient riding mower for hilly terrain and large lawns.
Why This Guide on The Best Riding Lawn Mowers for Hills
Did you know that not all riding lawn mowers handle hilly terrains effectively?
Choosing the right model can make a significant difference in your mowing experience.
Whether you're dealing with steep slopes or gentle inclines, the right mower can ensure a smooth and efficient cut. This guide has been created to remove the headache of finding top quality options.
Discover which top picks can help you tackle those challenges head-on and enhance your lawn care routine.
Key Takeaways
- Greenworks 60V offers quiet operation and excellent slope handling, making it ideal for large, hilly lawns.
- EGO POWER+ combines powerful performance with low maintenance, effectively cutting up to 1.5 acres on a single charge.
- Husqvarna TS 146 features ergonomic design and Air Induction technology, providing a reliable mowing experience on uneven terrain.
- Husqvarna Z246 delivers efficient mowing with quick ground speeds and a robust 46-inch mower deck suitable for hilly landscapes.
Deep Dive Review: Best Riding Lawn Mower For Hills
Pros
- Powerful Performance: Delivers 24 HP equivalent power with a brushless motor for cleaner cuts and enhanced torque.
- Quiet Operation: Operates at 90 dB, making it 4x quieter than traditional gas mowers.
- User-Friendly Features: Simple button-start operation and easy height adjustments for convenience during mowing.
Cons
- Weight: At 456.4 pounds, it may be challenging to maneuver in tighter spaces.
- Battery Drain: Uses approximately 30% of battery for 0.5 acres, requiring careful planning for larger areas.
- Assembly Issues: Some users reported missing bolts during the assembly process.
The EGO POWER+ Electric Riding Lawn Mower (TR4204) stands out as an excellent choice for homeowners with hilly terrain due to its powerful dual brushless motors and impressive 21-horsepower equivalent.
With a 42-inch deck and adjustable height settings, you can customize your cut for optimal results. You'll appreciate its battery-powered design, which allows you to tackle up to 1.5 acres on a single charge.
The digital display and cruise control enhance ease of use, while safety features like automatic shut-off provide peace of mind. Though the initial cost is higher, many users find the investment worthwhile for its performance and durability.
Best For: Homeowners with hilly terrain looking for a powerful, efficient, and low-maintenance riding lawn mower.
Pros
- Powerful dual brushless motors provide a 21-horsepower equivalent for effective cutting performance.
- Battery-powered design allows for up to 1.5 acres of cutting on a single charge, making it suitable for large lawns.
- User-friendly features such as a digital display, cruise control, and safety automatic shut-off enhance the overall mowing experience.
Cons
- Higher initial cost compared to traditional gas mowers, which may deter budget-conscious buyers.
- Battery performance can vary, with some users finding the advertised cutting area optimistic depending on battery usage.
- Assembly can be time-consuming and challenging, particularly during uncrating.
For homeowners tackling hilly terrain, the Husqvarna TS 146 (46) 22HP Briggs Lawn Tractor stands out as an excellent choice.
Its powerful 22HP Briggs engine and hydrostatic transmission provide smooth operation at speeds up to 5 mph. The 46-inch reinforced steel mower deck, equipped with Air Induction technology, ensures a superior cut.
Weighing 456 pounds, it offers stability on slopes, while the ergonomic seat and steering wheel enhance comfort during longer mowing sessions. With a 3-gallon fuel capacity, you're set for extended use. Rated 5.0 stars by satisfied customers, this mower is a reliable partner for your hilly yard.
Best For: Homeowners with hilly terrain looking for a reliable and powerful lawn tractor for efficient mowing.
Pros
- Powerful 22HP Briggs engine provides smooth operation and reliable performance.
- 46-inch reinforced steel mower deck with Air Induction technology ensures superior cut quality.
- Ergonomic design enhances comfort during extended mowing sessions.
Cons
- Heavy weight of 456 pounds may make it difficult to transport.
- Higher price point compared to some entry-level lawn tractors.
- Limited information on warranty, which may concern potential buyers.
Designed for homeowners tackling hilly terrains, the Husqvarna Z246 lawn mower offers a powerful 22HP Briggs engine that ensures smooth operation and effective cutting on slopes.
With its 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck, you’ll achieve a precise cut with ease. The Hydro-Gear EZT transmission allows for a ground speed of up to 6.5 mph, making your mowing tasks quick and efficient.
Weighing in at 654 pounds and featuring a fuel capacity of 3.5 gallons, this gas-powered zero-turn mower delivers both durability and performance. Plus, with rave customer ratings, you’ll know you’re investing in a reliable machine.
Best For: Homeowners looking for a reliable and powerful lawn mower to tackle hilly terrains and achieve a precise cut.
Pros
- Powerful 22HP Briggs engine for smooth operation and effective cutting.
- Hydro-Gear EZT transmission allows for quick ground speeds of up to 6.5 mph, making mowing tasks efficient.
- 46-inch stamped 2-blade mower deck provides a precise cutting width, ideal for a well-manicured lawn.
Cons
- Heavy weight of 654 pounds may make maneuvering difficult for some users.
- Gas powered, which requires regular fuel purchases and maintenance.
- Warranty information available upon request, which may complicate support for some customers.
Greenworks 80V 60 Zero Turn Mower stands out as an ideal choice for homeowners with hilly landscapes, thanks to its impressive slope handling capability of up to 15°.
With a robust 60” cutting deck and powerful battery configuration, it delivers the equivalent of 41 horsepower. You’ll appreciate the quiet operation—four times quieter than gas mowers. The premium high-back padded seat ensures comfort during long mowing sessions.
Plus, the unique rear dump bed allows you to transport materials easily. Compatible with over 75 Greenworks 80V products, this mower is a versatile addition to your lawn care arsenal.
Best For: Homeowners with hilly landscapes seeking a powerful, quiet, and comfortable mowing solution.
Pros
- Quieter operation, four times quieter than traditional gas mowers.
- Impressive slope handling capability of up to 15° for tackling hilly terrains.
- Includes a unique rear dump bed for easy transport of materials.
Cons
- Heavy weight of 1120 pounds may make maneuvering difficult for some users.
- Users have reported issues with ROPS installation fitting.
- Limited customer ratings may indicate a lack of widespread user feedback.
When tackling hilly terrains, the Husqvarna Riding Lawn Mower with its powerful 24 HP engine is a game changer.
This mower’s 54-inch ClearCut deck allows you to adjust cutting positions, ensuring a precise cut even in challenging conditions.
Its durable hydrostatic transmission, paired with an electronic differential lock, guarantees smooth operation and excellent traction, minimizing lawn damage. You’ll appreciate the extra-high vinyl seat for extended comfort, while the deluxe overmolded steering wheel enhances your driving experience.
Built with a heavy-duty frame and alloy steel, this mower also features a brush guard-style bumper for added protection. It’s designed to perform!
Best For: Homeowners with large yards or hilly terrains seeking a powerful and efficient mowing solution.
Pros
- Powerful 24 HP engine delivers fast and efficient mowing, making it suitable for tough terrains.
- 54-inch ClearCut deck allows for multiple cutting positions, ensuring a precise cut in various conditions.
- Durable hydrostatic transmission with electronic differential lock enhances traction and minimizes lawn damage.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to push mowers, which may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers.
- Size and weight may make it difficult to maneuver in smaller or tighter spaces.
- Maintenance requirements may be more demanding than those of smaller lawn care equipment.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Riding Lawn Mower for Hills
When you're choosing a riding lawn mower for hilly terrain, several key factors come into play.
You'll need to consider the mower’s slope handling capability, engine power, and weight distribution to ensure stability. Additionally, the deck size and transmission type can significantly affect your mowing experience on inclines.
Slope Handling Capability
Choosing the right riding lawn mower for hills hinges on understanding its slope handling capability. Look for models that can handle slopes of at least 15 degrees, as this ensures effective traction and performance on inclines.
Mowers with all-wheel drive systems provide better grip and stability compared to two-wheel drive options, making them ideal for steep terrain. Additionally, a low center of gravity enhances stability and minimizes the risk of tipping.
Advanced traction technologies, like electronic differential locks, can also improve performance on uneven surfaces. Lastly, pay attention to weight distribution; while lightweight designs offer better maneuverability, heavier models may struggle on steep gradients.
Selecting a mower with these features will make hill mowing safer and more efficient.
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Engine Power and Torque
Engine power and torque play a crucial role in how well your riding lawn mower performs on hilly terrain.
Higher horsepower ratings, typically starting at 22 HP, provide the necessary strength to maintain speed and efficiency while tackling steep slopes and thick grass.
Torque, which measures the engine's rotational force, is essential for overcoming resistance when climbing hills.
A mower with higher torque ensures better traction and stability on uneven ground. Additionally, consider models with hydrostatic transmissions for smooth power delivery and enhanced control over speed and torque.
Features like differential locks can significantly improve traction on slopes, preventing wheel slippage and maintaining grip as you navigate challenging landscapes. Choose wisely to ensure optimal performance!
Deck Size Considerations
Selecting the right deck size for your riding lawn mower is essential, especially when navigating hilly terrain.
A larger deck, typically between 42 to 54 inches, allows you to cover more ground efficiently, making it ideal for expansive hilly areas.
However, if you’re dealing with steep or narrow slopes, a smaller deck size of 21 to 30 inches offers better maneuverability and precise cutting in tight spots. It’s also beneficial to choose a mower with adjustable height options to adapt to varying terrain, ensuring effective grass management.
Additionally, consider the deck material; reinforced steel decks provide durability, which is crucial when tackling rough, uneven surfaces. Balancing efficiency and maneuverability will lead to a smoother mowing experience.
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Weight Distribution and Stability
When navigating hilly terrain, understanding weight distribution and stability is crucial for safe and effective mowing.
Mowers with a lower center of gravity offer better stability on inclines, reducing the risk of tipping. A balanced weight across the front and rear wheels enhances traction and maneuverability, helping you maintain control on slopes.
Models with a heavier rear end can prevent the front wheels from lifting, ensuring better ground contact. While overall weight is important, lighter models may struggle with stability and traction.
Opt for a robust design that suits your terrain. Remember, the right weight distribution can make all the difference in achieving a smooth, efficient cut on your hilly lawn.
Transmission Type Selection
Choosing the right transmission type can significantly enhance your mowing experience on hilly terrains. Hydrostatic transmissions are often the best choice, as they offer smooth speed control without the hassle of changing gears.
This feature allows you to maneuver easily on slopes. Models with automatic or hydrostatic transmissions adapt power delivery based on the terrain, effectively tackling steep inclines.
Additionally, a differential lock can help maintain traction on uneven surfaces, preventing wheel slippage. When selecting a mower, also consider its ground speed capabilities; slower speeds are safer on hills, ensuring better control and cutting quality.
Finally, look for design features like a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase for added stability on inclines.
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Tire Traction and Grip
To navigate hilly terrains safely, understanding tire traction and grip is essential for any riding lawn mower. Inadequate grip can lead to slipping or sliding, so you’ll want mowers with larger, deeper tread tires for improved traction on slopes.
These tires allow for better maneuverability and minimize the risk of accidents. Look for models with rubber compounds designed for enhanced friction, as they’re ideal for uneven surfaces.
Additionally, pay attention to weight distribution; a lower center of gravity helps prevent tipping and boosts traction on inclines.
If you really want to maximize grip, consider mowers with four-wheel drive systems, which distribute power to all wheels, enhancing traction on steep or slippery slopes.
Maneuverability and Control
Navigating hilly terrains requires a riding lawn mower that offers excellent maneuverability and control.
When choosing a mower, look for models with a low center of gravity and a wide wheelbase; these features enhance stability on slopes. Hydrostatic transmissions are a must, as they provide smooth acceleration and better control when traversing inclines.
Additionally, a tight turning radius allows you to navigate around obstacles effectively. Enhanced traction control systems are crucial, preventing slipping and ensuring grip on steep hills.
Finally, opt for riding mowers with adjustable speed settings to match the terrain's challenges, allowing for optimal mowing performance. By considering these factors, you’ll find a mower that makes cutting grass on hills easier and safer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Riding Mower for Steep Hills?
When you're tackling steep hills, you’ll want a riding mower specifically designed for stability and traction.
Look for models with low centers of gravity and wide wheel bases to prevent tipping. Features like powerful engines and all-wheel drive can enhance performance on slopes.
Brands like John Deere and Husqvarna often have great options for hilly terrain. Always check user reviews to ensure you're getting a mower that meets your needs on those challenging inclines.
How Do I Maintain My Riding Mower for Hilly Terrain?
Maintaining your riding mower for hilly terrain is crucial—think of it as giving your mower a superhero cape to conquer steep slopes!
Start by regularly checking the blades for sharpness and replacing them as needed. Keep the tires properly inflated for better traction, and clean the mower after each use to prevent clogs.
Don’t forget to change the oil and filters at recommended intervals to keep your mower running like a dream.
Are Electric Mowers Suitable for Hilly Lawns?
Electric mowers can be suitable for hilly lawns, but it depends on a few factors. If your hills aren't too steep and the mower has enough battery power, you should be fine.
Look for models with good torque and traction to handle inclines effectively. However, keep in mind that battery life might limit your mowing time, so plan accordingly.
If you’re tackling steep slopes, a gas mower might be a better option for you.
What Safety Features Should I Look for in a Riding Mower?
When you’re shopping for a riding mower, prioritize safety features to protect yourself while mowing.
Look for automatic blade shut-off systems, which stop the blades when you dismount. Check for rollover protection systems (ROPS) to prevent accidents on slopes. Ensure the mower has a seatbelt and safety switches that halt operation if you leave the seat.
Good visibility and headlights are also crucial for safe operation in low light conditions. Stay safe while you mow!
How Do I Improve Traction on a Riding Mower for Hills?
To improve traction on your riding mower for hills, you can start by checking the tire pressure; under-inflated tires can slip easily.
Consider investing in wider, deep-tread tires designed for better grip. You might also try adding weight to the mower’s rear for increased stability.
Regularly maintaining the mower and ensuring the blades are sharp can help as well, making it easier to cut through the grass without losing traction.
Final Thoughts on the Best Riding Lawn Mowers for Hills
In the quest for the perfect riding lawn mower for hilly terrain, you’re not just choosing a tool; you’re selecting a trusty steed for your landscape adventures.
With options like the Greenworks and Husqvarna models, you’re destined to conquer those slopes with ease.
Hope you enjoyed this article, it was very fun to create, all the best.