Frank, Roads End in Kings Canyon just heads up Bubbs Creek toward Vidette Meadow, and joins your trail coming over Kearsarge Pass right where your KP trail drops down to Vidette Meadow and Bubbs Cr. (Map link0

However, it is a long slog: You start at 5k elevation and climb a long time over a long distance. I think starting on the east side is certainly easier from the car-shuttle stand point. It's a long drive to Roads End: about 2 hours from Fresno.

But you certainly wouldn't need that infernal Exit Permit!