Waterhouse Peak Ski Tour

Lake Tahoe Backcountry Skiing Waterhouse Peak (and it's western peaklet, Powderhouse) is a favorite for a quick backcountry day trip. It is often lapped by locals before or after work, and tends to hold good stashes of powder snow even weeks after the last storm. The hill faces north, is relatively high (9500') blanketed in trees, isn't super steep, and tends to be surprisingly calm, making it a popular choice during and just after the last storm. Several laps can be made during any afternoon, although the best snow is usually found on the top of the mountain, so skiers usually head back up before reaching the bottom. Most skiers loop the mountain from their car parked on Luther Pass (89). It is also possible to ski down the eastern slopes if you can shuttle your car down to Hope Valley (88). Check your compass at the parking lot for a return bearing; the mountain is often cloudy and it is quite easy to veer down the wrong direction, which may later require you to head back uphill if you've gone too far, or look for stream crossings. Stay close to your companions on the way down - it is easy to lose track of people in the trees and (sometimes) clouds.