trip advice - 3 day early may, sierra-ish ?

[Satchel Buddah]

hi all, I have a long week end early may - couple weeks before labor day. Planning to go get some fresh air before permit season begins. My base plan is to go goof off yet again in redwood mountain, but I was wondering if there was something else lovely and sierra-ish that would be doable this early season? It's a bit early for anything in high altitude I am afraid.
I'm an intermediate backpacker, not olympic shape but decent. My gear can probably take 15 fahrenheit nights. Thank you for your recommendations!

[Wandering Daisy]

I think you mean Memorial Day, not Labor Day. Where are you located and how many hours are you willing to drive? Are you willing to walk on snow at all? Anway a few more specifics would help.

[Satchel Buddah]

Whoops! You are right - Memorial Day.
Love Walking/hiking in snow! have micro spikes,gaiters, winter boots and an ice axe but no snowshoes. Next item on the list. I can navigate covered trails.
I roost in LA but I am fine with a 6 hour drive tops. (The drive to SEKI usually takes me about 3 hours and some). i will be driving out at 4 am Friday.
I will have to drive back Sunday night.
Could be a loop or a hike in/out, long travel or short. Always delighted to try new places, but I recoil at overused sites.