Pea Gravel vs. River Rock: Which Works Best in Denver’s Climate?

Pea gravel and river rock are two of the most popular decorative aggregates used in Denver landscapes—and for good reason. Both perform well in our semi-arid climate, require little water, and can last for decades when installed properly.

However, these materials are not interchangeable. Choosing the wrong one can result in uncomfortable walkways, gravel washing away during summer storms, or a finished look that doesn’t complement your home.

This guide provides a clear, Denver-specific comparison. You’ll learn which material fits your project type, budget, and maintenance expectations so you can confidently choose the right stone for your yard.

Quick Comparison: Pea Gravel vs. River Rock

Factor	Pea Gravel	River Rock
Typical size	¼–½ inch diameter	¾–2+ inches diameter
Shape & texture	Small, rounded, uniform, smooth	Larger, irregular, textured
Common colors	Tan, gray, buff, mixed earth tones	Gray, brown, tan, white, multi-colored
Best uses	Garden paths, between pavers, play areas, light patios, bed top-dressing	Dry creek beds, drainage swales, downspouts, foundation borders, xeriscape accents
Cost	Lower per cubic yard	Higher per ton or cubic yard
Maintenance	Moderate (raking, edging, periodic refilling)	Low (stable once installed)

What Is Pea Gravel?

Characteristics

Pea gravel consists of small, rounded stones measuring approximately ¼ to ½ inch in diameter—about the size of peas. These stones are naturally weathered in riverbeds or mechanically tumbled to achieve smooth, rounded edges.

What sets pea gravel apart is its uniform size and appearance. Unlike river rock, which varies widely in shape and scale, pea gravel forms an even, carpet-like surface.

Its natural colors—tans, grays, creams, and warm browns—blend well with Denver’s high-desert environment. Many suppliers also offer blended mixes that subtly mimic the look of a natural streambed.

Common Uses

Pea gravel works best in areas where people walk or where a soft, consistent surface is important.

• Garden paths and walkways benefit from its comfort and drainage.

• It fills gaps between pavers and stepping stones while allowing water to pass through.

• Light-use patios gain a casual, European courtyard feel.

• Play areas and dog runs can use pea gravel if properly contained.

• Some gardeners use it as decorative top-dressing to suppress weeds and retain moisture.

Pros and Cons of Pea Gravel

Pros

• Affordable: Typically costs $30–60 per cubic yard in the Denver area.

• Comfortable underfoot: Ideal for paths, patios, and high-traffic areas.

• Good drainage on flat ground: Helps prevent muddy surfaces.

• Easy to adjust: Can be raked, refreshed, or repurposed without heavy equipment.

Cons

• Moves easily on slopes: Requires edging and a compacted base.

• Tracks indoors: Stones can cling to shoes and pets.

• Ongoing maintenance: Needs periodic raking and refilling every 3–5 years.

What Is River Rock?

Characteristics

River rock ranges from ¾ inch to several inches in diameter. Although water-worn and rounded, the stones remain irregular in shape, giving each piece a unique appearance.

River rock comes in a wide range of colors depending on its source, including granite gray, sandstone tan, white quartz, and mixed stone blends. Its size and weight make it highly resistant to movement from wind or water.

Common Uses

River rock excels in functional drainage and erosion-control applications:

• Dry creek beds that channel stormwater

• Drainage swales that handle Denver’s intense summer storms

• Downspout discharge areas and foundation borders

• Xeriscape accents separating planting zones or turf areas

It also works well as a bold visual feature around trees, water features, and focal points in the landscape.

Pros and Cons of River Rock

Pros

• Excellent drainage and erosion control

• Strong visual impact that complements Colorado’s mountain aesthetic

• Does not compact under foot traffic

• Very low maintenance once installed

Cons

• Higher upfront cost: Typically $50–120 per cubic yard or ton

• Uncomfortable to walk on: Not suitable for paths or patios

• Heavy and difficult to move: Adjustments require significant labor or equipment

Key Differences That Matter in Denver

Comfort and Foot Traffic

Pea gravel provides a smooth, walkable surface suitable for barefoot traffic. River rock feels uneven and uncomfortable and should be reserved for non-walking areas.

Drainage and Storm Performance

Pea gravel drains well in flat areas but shifts easily on slopes during heavy rain. River rock handles high-flow drainage zones and remains stable during Denver’s intense thunderstorms.

Design and Appearance

Pea gravel creates a subtle, uniform backdrop that allows plants to stand out. River rock delivers bold texture and visual interest, reinforcing naturalistic or mountain-inspired designs.

Maintenance Over Time

Pea gravel requires periodic upkeep, including raking and refilling. River rock remains stable for decades with minimal intervention.

Cost Considerations

Pea gravel costs less per cubic yard and covers more area at shallow depths. River rock costs more due to size, weight, and transport but offers superior longevity.

• Pea gravel paths: 2–3 inches deep

• River rock drainage areas: 4–6 inches deep

DIY installation works well for small projects. Large drainage systems or sloped installations often justify professional installation due to grading and engineering requirements.

How to Choose the Right Material

Choose Pea Gravel If You Need:

• Walkable paths or patios

• Comfortable seating or play areas

• Subtle decorative accents

• A budget-friendly solution with manageable upkeep

Choose River Rock If You Need:

• Drainage control or erosion protection

• Foundation moisture management

• Long-term, low-maintenance features

• Bold focal points in xeriscapes

HOA and Neighborhood Considerations

Some Denver HOAs regulate landscape materials. Always review guidelines before purchasing. Neighborhood style also matters—historic areas often suit pea gravel paths, while foothill or mountain-view properties pair well with river rock.

Conclusion

There is no single winner in the pea gravel vs. river rock debate. The best choice depends on how and where the material will be used.

Use pea gravel for comfort and walkability. Use river rock for drainage, durability, and structure. When matched correctly to the task, both materials perform exceptionally well in Denver’s climate and can enhance your landscape for decades.