Grays Arch — Local services in Stanton

When there were no parking spaces at the end of Nada Tunnel Rd for the Auxier Ridge Trails, we drove back to the Gray's Arch parking lot and took the 1.3 mile Gray's Arch Trail.

Nada Tunnel Road hadn't seen rain in quite some time and was so dry that every vehicle that came through created a huge cloud of gray dust, covering our car. The vegetation along both sides of the road was covered as well. (Dust photos at the end of my pics)

There are outhouses at the beginning of the trail, marked male and female. The women's building was out of toilet paper but not the men's; use that knowledge if you happen to find the same situation when you hike.

The hike is fairly easy most of the way. We had beautiful fall colors to enjoy. As you approach the arch (which you can see through the trees on your right before you descend) the terrain steepens, there are lots of steps (some more narrow than others), two huge trees across the trail in two separate locations that require some strategy to go under. (I sat and did a head and shoulder tuck, but had to be careful as there are two 6-8 inch broken limb stumps sticking out on the other side right where you would stand upright again. Parents with baby carriers on their back were removing the carriers and handing them across the top of the tree as the parents took turns going under.)

It's a climb up to the landing under the arch, requiring some high stepping over jutting rocks, then a walk up a sloped, sand covered rock the size of a child's slide. In fact, the thing reminded me of a slide that had it's shape distorted by being hit one to many time on it's side, then shoved partially under the rock wall opposite it. My hiking stick helped, as well as partially sitting on the rock as I went up and came down afterwards.

There are rocks and boulder to rest upon once you get under the arch. Great location for a snack and a drink break and to chat with other hikers.

There may be another trail down but we went back out the same way we came in. The return hike required a few breaks to catch my breath and rest my...

This is one of those hikes that you need to do if you frequent the Red River Gorge. The trailhead features a picnic area and 2 out-houses (male and female) with a decent amount of parking. Trailhead also has a map of the hike and connecting trails. Offers a loop or a point a to point b back to point a styled trail. So either, you can start off from the trailhead and make your way to the arch and then just turn around (this being easier and a bit shorter) or you can visit the arch and then continue on the trail (follow the diamonds). This is a well maintained trail but with the elevation changes can make it difficult for some people. This trail features 3 stair cases and one of them is fairly demanding as far as stair cases go. The arch is huge but is the main view of the trail. There is one spot with a vast view looking out at the terrain, but other than that you are walking through pleasant woods. There is a small crossing of a creek halfway through, which typically is refreshingly cool with a moderate wind. You should hike this...

This trail offers it all—bridges, flowing water, unique rock formations, towering trees, and beautiful wildflowers—all leading to a breathtaking arch!

One thing to note: the trail distance seems inconsistent across reviews. Our round-trip trek measured just over 5.5 miles, though different starting points may account for the variations.

What makes this hike truly special is the variety of landscapes—wetlands, woodlands, and dense forest—all wrapped into one unforgettable experience. Once you reach the overlook and see the arch across the ravine, don’t stop there! Keep going until you find the trail that leads down and around to the arch itself. It’s absolutely worth it.

Be sure to bring water and a snack—you’ll want time to soak it all in!

Enjoying life 1 sip, 1 bite and 1 small town at a time!...