MooseTracks, that "up north" permit must not have been in Inyo National Forest.

I just made a one-person reservation for the "Birch Lake-JM25" trail, which is outside the Whitney Zone, but in Inyo National Forest. The charge is $5 per hiker, plus the $6 reservation processing fee. The email confirmation letter has the same message:

This is NOT your Permit. Bring this letter with you to the Permit Issue Station

Also in the confirmation email:
Quote:
POLICIES

You are reserved to visit Inyo National Forest

This is not your permit.
The permit will be issued to the group leader or alternate leader 1 or 2 days before the trip (show photo id when requested). The leader is responsible to see that everyone in the group will follow the conditions of the permit and all laws, rules and regulations for the area. The leader must carry the permit during the trip. All group members must start on the date and trail listed or the permit is invalid. Visit the Inyo National Forest website for permit pick up instructions.
Deadline: Group size must be confirmed before 10 a.m. on the entry date or the reservation will be canceled and made available to other groups.


Reservation Changes:
You can update your reservation on line at www.Recreation.gov
  • Change in the number of people while keeping the same dates and trail: If you are increasing your party size, a $15.00/person (Whitney Zone) or $5.00/person reservation fee will apply depending on your trail entry point. Decrease in group size at least 22 days prior to the entry date, the per person reservation fee will be refunded for the number of people reduced. Reductions in group size 21 days or less prior to the entry date will not be refunded.
  • Confirm your group size and reservation one or two weeks before the trip.
  • Changes can also be made with the assistance of the reservation call center (877) 444-6222
  • Change in the entry trail or date of entry: Cancel your current reservation and reserve the desired trail and dates if space is available. Reservation and transaction fees will apply to the new reservation.
Reservations are not for re-sale and cannot be transferred to other groups or future years.