The permits to get started from Horseshoe Meadow are always plentiful because of the non quota Trail Pass Trailhead and high quota Cottonwood Lakes and Cottonwood Pass Trailheads. However, the limiting factor is Exit permit but if you go into the Visitor Center the day before you enter the wilderness at opening you should not have a problem getting either a trailhead or exit permit, since 40% are held back for walk-in. The problem, as I see it, is if you want to go the same day or get to the ESIVC (Visitor Center) late in the day before.
