The Shale Barrens is a .5 mile, difficult, multi-use trail. When accessed from the Cullers Trail, it is a steady climb up and around a ridge that has been cut through shale deposits on a steep hillside. The shallow soil and exposed shale are home to some unusual plants and wildflowers such as Prickly Pear and Wild Columbine. For an easier hike, visitors can access the trail from either Redtail Ridge or Big Oak trail.