I've got a work trip to the Central Valley area in early November, flying into Fresno, and I've realized I can check my backpack so I'm looking to do an easy two nights in the backcountry from Road's End.

Current plan is to hike to Lower Paradise Valley and set up camp on Saturday. Sunday I explore a little deeper into the backcountry with a daypack while leaving camp set up that I'll return to that night. Monday I hike out and drive to Fresno for a red eye back east.

Weather
I have no problem backpacking in the cold and camping in below freezing weather-if it's dry. What is a reliable source for weather in the backcountry as well as the road into the park and what "city" do I use to get the forecast?
I'll have a rental car with no chains so I'm just as concerned about Monday as I am Saturday.

Bear Canister
I've always done the rope over the limb or pole hanging so I don't have a cannister. Can I rent them from the park in November or will I need to bring my own?

Backcountry Permit
From what I've read crowds aren't a problem in November and I can get a backcountry permit anytime when I arrive. Has this changed?

Camp
Is it safe (from animals) to leave my tent set up? Usually I hang my pack when I'm out for the day but that doesn't seem to be possible here. Food will be in a bear cannister. What's the best way to handle camp when in Kings Canyon?

Backup Plan
I'm aiming for Kings Canyon because I fell in love with it the only other time I've been in this part of California. If the road into the canyon is closed or the weather is bad, what are some other ideas for relaxed backpacking (not strenuous, easy access to water I can filter, away from civilization feel) within a 3 or 4 hour drive of the Fresno airport? Coast or mountains are both good. Bonus points for low crowds and big scenery. Remote is not an issue but roads need to be in good shape since I'll be in a rental.

TIA!