Summit #1: Waterhouse Peak

Not far from the cabin, on the road to Tahoe, is crossroads known as Pickett's Junction. It's at the head of Hope Valley, as beautiful a valley as can be found anywhere. Every time we pass the junction, we look up longingly at the few prominent peaks that tower above the valley. One of those is Waterhouse Peak, an easy summit with incredible views of the entire valley and even north all the way to Lake Tahoe. This morning, at 6:30 a.m., I made the summit and enjoyed the solitude of the place. Although easy, this summit has no trail so not many make the attempt. That made it even more rewarding. What's next?