DIY Backyard Boardwalk: A Simple Way to Upgrade Your Lawn
A backyard boardwalk path adds charm and function at the same time. It keeps your shoes clean, protects your lawn from wear, and gives your yard a polished look. The best part? You don’t need to dig up your grass or pour concrete to build one.
If you’ve got basic tools and a free weekend, you can build a simple boardwalk path that sits right over your lawn. Here’s how to do it the right way.
Why Build a Boardwalk Over Grass?
Before jumping into the steps, let’s talk about why this project makes sense.
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Keeps high-traffic areas from turning muddy
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Adds structure and style to your yard
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Improves access to gardens, sheds, or patios
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Requires minimal digging
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Can be removed or adjusted later
It’s a great solution if you want something cleaner than stepping stones but less permanent than a paved walkway.
Materials You’ll Need
Here’s a basic materials list for a standard 3-foot-wide path:
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Pressure-treated 2×6 or 5/4 deck boards
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Pressure-treated 2x4s for framing
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Ground contact-rated wood (important)
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Galvanized deck screws
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Landscape fabric
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Gravel (optional for extra drainage)
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Wood stain or sealant
You can adjust quantities based on the length of your path.
Tools Required
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Measuring tape
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Level
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Circular saw
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Drill/driver
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Shovel (light leveling only)
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String line and stakes
Nothing fancy. If you’ve built a simple deck before, this will feel familiar.
Step 1: Plan Your Path Layout
Start by deciding where your boardwalk will go.
Use stakes and string to mark the path. Walk it a few times. Make sure it feels natural and wide enough. A width of 30–36 inches works well for most yards.
Think about drainage. Avoid low spots where water pools after rain.
Step 2: Prep the Grass
You don’t need to remove all the grass, but you do need a stable base.
Mow the grass as short as possible. If the ground is uneven, lightly level high spots with a shovel. For better long-term results, lay down landscape fabric along the path. This helps prevent weeds from growing up between boards.
If your yard stays wet, add a thin layer of gravel for drainage.
Step 3: Build the Frame
The frame supports the boards and keeps everything straight.
Create simple ladder-style sections using 2x4s:
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Two long side rails
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Cross supports every 16–24 inches
Keep the frame low to the ground. You want it resting evenly across the surface.
Check for level as you go. Small shims or a bit of soil can help fix uneven spots.
Step 4: Lay and Secure the Deck Boards
Once the frame is in place, attach your deck boards across the top.
Leave a small gap between boards (about 1/8 inch) for drainage and expansion.
Use galvanized or exterior-grade screws to prevent rust. Two screws at each framing point is standard.
Work slowly and check alignment often. A straight path looks clean and intentional.
Step 5: Anchor the Boardwalk (If Needed)
In many cases, the weight of the structure is enough to hold it in place.
If your yard slopes or shifts, you can anchor it by:
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Driving stakes alongside the frame
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Securing the frame to the stakes with screws
You don’t need deep footings unless your ground is unstable.
Step 6: Seal and Protect the Wood
Pressure-treated wood holds up well, but sealing it extends its life.
Apply a quality exterior wood stain or clear sealer once the wood is dry. This protects against moisture, sun damage, and fading.
Reapply every few years for best results.
How Much Does It Cost?
Costs vary by size and lumber prices, but here’s a rough estimate:
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Lumber: $150–$400
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Screws and hardware: $30–$60
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Gravel and fabric: $50–$100
For most homeowners, the total project cost falls between $250 and $600.
That’s far less than a stone or concrete walkway.
Tips for a Better Result
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Slightly raise the boardwalk off the grass for airflow
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Avoid direct ground contact if possible
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Round the board edges with sandpaper for a softer look
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Add low solar lights along the edges for nighttime use
Small details make a big difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping drainage planning
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Using untreated lumber
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Building directly over thick, wet grass
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Forgetting to check level
Take your time on prep work. It saves headaches later.
Final Thoughts
Building a backyard boardwalk path over grass is one of those projects that looks harder than it is. With simple materials and careful planning, you can create a clean, durable path that upgrades your yard in just a weekend.
It’s practical. It looks great. And it keeps your lawn from turning into a muddy mess.
If you’ve been thinking about adding structure to your backyard without committing to concrete or stone, this is a project worth tackling.