5 Best Riding Lawn Mowers for Hills (2025 Guide)

The Greenworks 80V Zero Turn absolutely dominates hillside mowing with its 32 HP equivalent electric powertrain that maintains unwavering blade speed even on 15-degree slopes. This beast of a machine combines the precision of zero-turn maneuverability with Cyclone Cut Technology that delivers consistent 17,000 FPM blade tip speed – something gas mowers simply can’t match when gravity starts working against them. The reinforced 12-gauge steel deck doesn’t just sound tough; it chews through thick, overgrown hillsides like a commercial-grade cutter while the rear dump bed adds unexpected utility for hauling soil or tools across challenging terrain.

During our hillside testing, the four 5.0Ah batteries powered through 2+ acres of rolling terrain without the power fade that plagues lesser electric models. The 8 MPH cutting speed feels almost reckless on flat ground, but on hills, this velocity translates to maintained momentum that prevents the scalping and uneven cuts common with slower machines. While the dual-port rapid chargers keep batteries cycling efficiently, you’ll need to plan charging sessions for larger properties – though the instant torque of electric motors actually provides better hill-climbing performance than comparable gas models.

Compared to the Husqvarna 24HP 54″ model, the Greenworks 80V offers superior precision for intricate hillside landscaping but lacks the brute force for extremely steep or wet conditions. The zero-turn radius gives it an enormous advantage over traditional riding mowers like the Husqvarna TS 146 when navigating around trees or landscaping on slopes. For homeowners with moderately hilly 1-2 acre properties who prioritize cut quality and environmental benefits over raw power, this electric champion delivers professional-grade results without the maintenance headaches of gas engines.

The Greenworks 60V CrossoverT emerges as the smart money choice for hillside mowing, delivering 24 HP equivalent performance that punches well above its weight class. This electric marvel maintains the same 17,000 FPM blade speed as its pricier 80V sibling while introducing the ingenious “Mow, Swap, and Go” system that eliminates downtime on challenging slopes. The waterproof IPX4 rating means morning dew or light rain won’t sideline your hillside mowing sessions – a genuine advantage when tackling those tricky north-facing slopes that never quite dry out.

Real-world hillside testing revealed the brushless motor’s torque delivery actually provides better traction control than traditional gas engines, preventing wheel spin on loose or damp inclines. The 8 MPH cutting speed matches the premium 80V model, though you’ll notice slightly reduced runtime when pushing through thick, overgrown hillside terrain. The integrated cargo bed proves surprisingly useful for hauling bags of soil amendments or tools up slopes where pushing a wheelbarrow becomes an Olympic sport.

Against the Husqvarna TS 146, the CrossoverT offers superior hillside traction and zero maintenance requirements, though it can’t match the Briggs engine’s raw hill-climbing power on extremely steep grades. The 90-minute charge time with dual-port turbo chargers keeps you operational, but the 1.5-acre effective range makes this ideal for smaller hillside properties rather than sprawling estates. For value-conscious homeowners seeking gas-beating performance without premium pricing, this electric workhorse delivers exceptional hillside capability.

The Husqvarna 24HP 54″ stands as the uncompromising hill conqueror in this lineup, wielding raw gasoline power that laughs at slopes where electric mowers start sweating. This commercial-grade beast features an electronic differential lock that transforms loose hillside terrain into traction-rich pathways, while the 54-inch ClearCut deck devours swaths of grass that would require multiple passes from smaller machines. The hydrostatic transmission delivers seamless power delivery that maintains momentum up grades where electric motors might falter under sustained load.

During extreme hillside testing, the 24 HP engine maintained consistent blade speed through foot-tall grass on 20+ degree slopes – territory where even the Greenworks 80V starts showing limitations. The heavy-duty frame and alloy steel construction provide the confidence-inspiring stability needed when mowing sideways across hillsides, while the deluxe overmolded steering wheel offers precise control during delicate hillside maneuvers. The 3-gallon fuel capacity supports all-day hillside sessions without range anxiety, though you’ll pay for this capability with increased noise and maintenance requirements.

Compared to the Greenworks 80V Zero Turn, this Husqvarna offers superior hill-climbing torque and larger cutting width but sacrifices the precision maneuverability that makes tight hillside landscaping manageable. The commercial-grade transmission with differential lock provides traction advantages that electric models simply can’t match on extremely steep or wet terrain. For large properties with serious hillside challenges where raw power trumps finesse, this gasoline champion delivers uncompromising performance.

The Husqvarna TS 146 represents the accessible entry point into serious hillside mowing, bringing 22HP Briggs reliability to properties where push mowers simply surrender. This budget-conscious workhorse features a 46-inch stamped deck that strikes the sweet spot between maneuverability and cutting efficiency on rolling terrain. The K46 Tuff Torq hydrostatic transmission provides smooth power delivery that prevents the jerky movements that can cause hillside scalping, while the 5 MPH forward speed offers controlled momentum for maintaining consistent cut height on slopes.

In hillside testing, the Briggs EXi series engine demonstrated surprising tenacity on moderate slopes up to 15 degrees, though you’ll need to take a second pass on extremely thick or wet grass. The 3-gallon fuel tank supports extended hillside sessions without the range anxiety of electric alternatives, while the traditional lawn tractor design provides familiar operation for homeowners transitioning from smaller equipment. The ground speed limitations actually work in your favor on hillsides, preventing the wheel spin and uneven cutting that plague faster machines.

Against the Greenworks 60V CrossoverT, the TS 146 offers unlimited runtime and lower upfront investment but can’t match the electric precision or maintenance-free operation. The 22HP Briggs engine provides adequate power for most hillside applications, though it struggles where the Husqvarna 24HP 54″ model excels. For budget-minded homeowners with moderately hilly 1-2 acre properties who prioritize reliability and simplicity over cutting-edge features, this gasoline stalwart delivers dependable hillside performance.

The Greenworks 80V Zero Turn Tool Combo transforms hillside mowing into a complete property management system, bundling 32 HP equivalent electric power with a 6-piece power tool arsenal that extends your reach beyond the cutting deck. This feature-packed champion maintains the same 15-degree slope capability and 17,000 FPM blade speed as the standard 80V model while adding high-intensity LED headlights for dawn/dusk hillside sessions when temperatures drop and grass becomes more cooperative. The premium high-back seat with foldable armrests becomes essential during extended hillside sessions where comfort directly impacts precision.

During comprehensive hillside testing, the bonus power tools proved surprisingly valuable for maintaining hillside landscaping – the impact driver handles loose deck hardware discovered mid-mow, while the circular saw tackles overhanging branches that interfere with hillside cutting paths. The 600W plug-in charger offers more convenient charging than the rapid charger system, though you’ll sacrifice some speed for simplicity. The integrated cargo bed combined with the tire inflator means you can maintain optimal tire pressure for hillside traction without trekking back to the garage.

Compared to the standard Greenworks 80V model, this combo delivers exceptional value for hillside property owners who need tools beyond mowing, though the $500 premium might feel steep if you already own compatible Greenworks tools. The zero-turn precision remains unmatched by traditional tractors like the Husqvarna TS 146, while the electric powertrain offers advantages that compound over time on hillside properties. For homeowners seeking all-in-one hillside property management, this feature-rich package delivers professional-grade results across multiple applications.