The trail started on a pretty easy and wide path, but quickly shifted to a narrow path overgrown shrubs and loose gravel. There were a few sections where you had to do a little scrambling, thankfully my husband was there to lend a helping hand, and I was quickly past the section. We lucked out with a cool, beautiful sunny day. Corte Madera is accurately listed as a hard or challenging hike, however, it is completely doable for most levels of hikers. I was tired afterward, but not wiped out. The views from the summit are incredible and you are up above the hawks soaring in the hills below you. It felt like we were in a completely different state, with all the lush greenery everywhere. I will definitely do this one again.