Tried the standard John Muir Trail permit process versus the 'walk-up' option at Tuolumne Meadows. One saved me a huge headache. | Backpacking Routes - Rigidtalk
Ugh, I have to totally disagree. Permits feel like a trap that just kills the mood to even start a project. All that waiting and paperwork is the opposite of fun, and honestly @alice_wilson73, calling that a "planning fun" part sounds like you've never had a permit get denied over some tiny rule. It just adds stress and extra cost before you even lift a hammer.