Pacific Crest Trail to Midnight Lake

Started the hike after parking at the PCT Trailhead parking on the north side of Highway 58. The entrance is just past the second Odell Lake turnoff if you're traveling west. Cross the highway and start heading southbound. The trail is pretty well marked, but be aware that there are winter trails that intersect. These trails are marked blue with a blue diamond, and you'll see them until you enter the wilderness. This is a relatively easy hike to Midnight Lake with a slight incline, but in the summer the mosquitos on trail are fierce. They will swarm you and made the hike slightly less than enjoyable. After entering the Diamond Peak Wilderness, you'll gain elevation slightly before reaching the Midnight Lake Access Trail. This trail is not marked so you have to rely on a map, GPS, or the Mobile App. You can barely make out the lake from the PCT. If you want to hike around the lake, know that you'll need to bushwhack through dense undergrowth on the south lakeshore. If you're looking to spend the night, there are really only two sites to camp, both near where the access trail terminates at the lake. Interestingly enough, the mosquitos were barely noticeable at the edge of the lake. However, waltz into the forest and you'll get swarmed. After enjoying your time at Midnight Lake, simply follow the access trail back to the PCT and return the way you came to reach your car.