After a summer of dusty scrambles and parched ridge walks, choosing a trail named after its lush greenery offers relief.  For those searching for a classic mystic mountain meadows walk, Verdant Pass is sure to appease.

Marked by massive walls of rocks, stunning cirques of Edith Cavell, expansive meadows and the distinct architecture of Chevron and Throne Mountain, a piece of solitude can be found opposite the crowded path of the glacier paved walk, for those with the time – and the legs to find it.

The day long hike, measuring about 22 kilometres round trip (depending on one’s sense of adventure) includes about 700 metres of elevation gain, so be prepared to work for those rewarding vistas. The trail head is at the Edith Cavell hostel parking lot, allowing the bumpy drive to take care of a lot of climbing.

After walking 4.7 kilometres on a flat and wide path along the Astoria river trail (keep right after the bridge shortly past the trailhead), the trail to Verdant pass appears to the left. The turn-off isn’t particularly well signed, so be aware of your surroundings. You will know you’ve gone too far if you come to a wooden bridge, which is 400 metres past the turn off.

This trail is much more rugged, as the greenery closes in on the hiker in parts. The odd fallen log has blocked the path, however there isn’t anything impassable. Small creeks pour through the woods, and wildflowers and birds provide points of interest until the trail opens up with views of Throne Mountain.

The ascent through lush forest cools, however the landscape becomes more arid as the pines give way to boulders, providing a decent stopping point for a snack before continuing onto the steepest part of the trail.

Once above the trees, a quick steep climb offers rewarding views of miles of meadow. The back of Mount Edith Cavell sits to the left, offering a few scramble opportunities,
Marmots, pikas and ptarmagins can be seen from here on in. Once upon the meadow passes the first cirque, the trail disappears into a short descent, and hikers can work their way through fields and streams towards the pass. Small glacier-fed lakes feed the greenery, as walls. Continue past the second cirque (cathedral shaped rock formation) of Edith Cavell and onto the pass.

The meadows are a treat to romp about, however special care must be taken in such an environment. The flowers and mosses are extremely fragile, and susceptible to trampling. Since there is no distinct trail at this point, resist the urge to trounce through the wildflowers.

In order to maintain those green pastures, glacial melt keeps the grasses, flowers and mosses well hydrated. That also means plenty of mosquitoes, so be sure to cover up and bring repellent. Be sure to bring plenty of water on the hike as well.