Glenn, good points on the Trail Crest Exit walk-in permits.
On the "related question": Yes, true. They are only required with permits starting in the Inyo National Forest jurisdiction -- anywhere on the east side between Devils Postpile and Horseshoe Meadows. Trips starting in Sequoia, Kings Canyon and Yosemite National Parks (example: JMT hikers starting in Yosemite), AND hikers starting on National Forest trails on the west side are NOT required to have Trail Crest Exit permits.
