A stepping stone that settles below its neighbors can collect water and become a trip point. Resetting one stone is straightforward when the surrounding path is stable. The goal is a firm, well-drained base rather than simply adding loose soil beneath the slab.
Check the surrounding path
Walk the path and see whether several stones have moved or whether tree roots and runoff are affecting the area. Mark the stone that rocks or sits low. If the entire path is sinking, plan a broader base repair rather than making isolated adjustments.
Lift and excavate
Wear gloves and use a pry bar or two sturdy tools to lift the stone without pinching fingers. Remove loose soil from the footprint until the bottom is firm. Keep the excavation only as deep as needed for a compacted base plus the stone, and preserve the path’s intended drainage direction.
Build a stable bed
Add a thin layer of crushed gravel or stone dust suitable for the path, then compact it with a hand tamper. Set the stone and check it in both directions with a level. Add or remove small amounts of base material until it is stable and slightly above any place where water should pass.
Finish the edges
Pack the surrounding soil or gravel firmly against the stone, brush away loose material, and test it with normal walking pressure. Recheck after the next rain. If the stone moves again, investigate drainage, roots, or an undersized base instead of repeatedly topping it with uncompacted soil.