Backpackers to Assiniboine often come to the core via Assiniboine Pass, then exit through Wonder Pass, creating a partial loop route, but Wonder Pass is a prime day hike too.

From Assiniboine Lodge, the main trail runs east past the Naiset Huts and then starts a gradual ascent to Wonder Pass.   The lower half of the route at first runs through a wet meadow on a boardwalk surrounded by wildflowers, then continues on a good trail up through a wide pass filled with larch trees.   We want to return in October when the larches turn to gold.   The trail to the pass is an easy 2.5km.    The top of the pass is at the edge of the tree line between Mt. Cautley and Mt. Magog.    A wide gradual pass continues eastward.  

For the best viewpoint, go down the pass and take a side trail to the left (northeast).   Look for a narrow track up a scree slope to a low ridge.   Climb this ridge and follow it out to a prominent lookout over the Marvel Lake Valley.   To the south lie the peaks of the Great Divide – Aye Mountain, Eon Mountain, Gloria Mountain, and Marvel Peak, a ring of glaciers, sheer faces, and sharp peaks.   Below lies two large blue lakes – Marvel Lake and Lake Gloria.   This is the spot for lunch, photos, and to linger as long as your time permits.

Return by the same route, past the barren slopes of Cautley Ridge, through the larches to Gog Lake, and then back to the stunning views around Magog Lake.   Wonder-full.