We're building a new home near Kemptville and need a long gravel driveway — what type of gravel works best around Ottawa?

Building a gravel driveway in the Kemptville and rural Ottawa area is a common and practical choice, especially for longer driveways where asphalt costs would be prohibitive. The key to a gravel driveway that lasts through Ottawa's harsh winters and spring thaw is using the right materials in the right layers.

The Three-Layer System

A properly built gravel driveway uses three distinct layers, each with a specific purpose. Skipping a layer or using the wrong aggregate is the number one reason rural Ottawa gravel driveways turn into muddy ruts by April.

Base Layer: Granular A (Crusher Run)

The foundation layer should be 150mm to 200mm of Granular A, also called crusher run. This is a mix of crushed limestone ranging from dust-sized particles up to 20mm stone. The dust and fines pack together tightly when compacted, creating a stable base that resists frost heaving. In the Ottawa area, Granular A is sourced from local quarries in the Thomas Cavanagh, Tackaberry, and Beaudry operations around Ashton, Vars, and Arnprior. Expect to pay $25 to $35 per tonne delivered, and you'll need roughly 1.5 tonnes per metre of 3-metre-wide driveway.

Middle Layer: Granular B (Pit Run)

Below the Granular A, a 150mm layer of Granular B or pit run provides drainage and frost protection. This coarser material (up to 50mm stone) allows water to flow through rather than sitting and freezing. On properties near Kemptville where clay soils are common, this drainage layer is essential. Clay holds water like a sponge, and without proper drainage beneath your driveway, frost heaving will destroy the surface every spring. Granular B runs $18 to $28 per tonne.

Surface Layer: 3/4-Inch Clear Stone or Granular A

For the driving surface, you have two main options:

• 3/4-inch (19mm) clear crushed limestone — Angular pieces that lock together well and provide good traction. This is the most common choice for rural Ottawa driveways. About $30 to $40 per tonne
• Granular A as surface — Some homeowners prefer the smoother, more compacted surface of crusher run on top. It packs harder and is easier on vehicles but can get muddy during spring thaw and heavy rain

Avoid round river stone (pea gravel, river rock) for driving surfaces. The smooth, round shape means the stones never lock together — they'll constantly shift under tires and migrate off the driveway edges. It's a common and expensive mistake.

Cost Estimate for a Long Rural Driveway

For a 150-metre driveway that's 3 metres wide near Kemptville, budget approximately:

• Materials: $4,500 to $7,500 (three layers, properly specified)


• Delivery: $800 to $1,500 (multiple truckloads)


• Excavation, grading, and compaction: $3,000 to $6,000


• Total: $8,300 to $15,000

This assumes relatively flat terrain and decent soil conditions. If you're dealing with wet areas or significant slope, add for drainage culverts and additional base material.

Maintenance Through Ottawa Seasons

Gravel driveways in Ottawa need annual grading — typically once in spring after the thaw settles and once in fall before snow season. Budget $200 to $400 per grading. You'll also need to top up surface stone every 2-3 years as plowing and traffic gradually push material to the edges.

Connect with rural driveway specialists through Ottawa Driveways who can assess your specific soil conditions and provide accurate material and delivery quotes for the Kemptville area.

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