Longer sierra nevada treks early in the season.

"I also assume that it's probably better to hit the Kings Canyon and Sequoia NP area (less snow)."

Yes, there is a winter storm due to hit Tahoe on Saturday.

It might be a good time to head to the desert.

–B.G.–

Go to a lower elevation place like Emigrant. The terrain also isn't as insane, so less chance of steep passes or avalanches.
Or maybe even the Trinity Alps (not sierras but very nice)

Emigrant is going to get 4-6" of snow this weekend. So I have to take that into account… though it might not be that bad. Might be fun to have a big fire in the snow :)

Ya…check out Emigrant. 4-6 inches isn't too bad, depending on the base pack already there. Trinity Alps, as mentioned is also a good spot, but definitely check out the conditions before hand…they sometimes get even more snow than the Sierras. Another good place to check out is the Marble Mountains…although its a pretty far drive.

If there is too much snow around there you could always head into the backcoutry of Big Sur….lots of trails and plenty of miles to be hiked….