I loved hiking Corte Madera on this rainy, overcast day! The trail was damp, but not muddy but for an easily avoidable puddle here or there. The trail is well marked and quite varied; one minute you're traveling through dense brush and the next the trail has opened up into a flat, rocky landing. There are some steep, rocky ups and some flat, straight cruises. Overall, this was an absolutely wonderful hike that constantly rewarded me with stunning vistas, thriving flora, and some fun obstacles.
I spent about 3.5h from start to finish, including 30 minutes for lunch and views at the summit and lots of lollygagging along the way. I started by passing through the gate and up Kernan Road to the metal trash can sign marking the start of Espinosa Trail. At the next gate, I hung a right up Los Pinos Road. At the last junction, I continued straight up towards the well-marked Corte Madera Mountain Trail. At ~55ºF and overcast, the trail was incredibly pleasant. On a sunny day, bring lots of extra water and sunscreen, as the trail is unshaded much of the way.
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