Verdant Pass is a lesser-know hike in Jasper, but it is a pleasing day hike to a remote spot.   The trail starts on the Edith Cavell Road, at the Astoria River Trailhead (to Tonquin Valley).   Follow this trail on a gradual descent above the river for 4km.   As the route approaches the junction of Verdant Creek and the Astoria River, a backcountry path leads uphill to the left.   The trail is easy to follow, but it is easy to miss the junction (at about N52 41.039 W118 06.853).

From the junction, the trail climbs a gradual 483m over 5km to the top of the pass, a good spot for lunch. The open green meadows lie between Mount Edith Cavell (3363m) on the east and  Chevron Mountain (2879m) on the east.   The backslopes of Edith Cavell are sometimes used by climbers for a peak ascent.

It would be possible to go all the way down from Verdant Pass to the Whirlpool River for a loop route with two vehicles, but there is no trail down the south slopes below the alpine slopes of the pass.   A side trip up the Throne Mountain Valley to Buttress Lake and above to Beryl Lake looks promising for an overnight backpack to a remote alpine lake.

We enjoyed the 18 km route for its remote, quiet alpine beauty.   We saw no one the whole time and savored the solitude.   A recommended verdant experience.

The trailhead area near Cavell Lake

In the pass with Chevron Mountain in the background.

Chevron Mountain

Near the top of the pass

Subalpine fir