The Hiawatha trail in ID/MT has long been on our bucket list. For those unfamiliar, it is a 15 mile dirt/ gravel rail trail. 2% grade with some awesome tunnels and tressels.

Of course DH and I could always rent mountain bikes near the trail head, but really, researching the next great bike is so much more fun!

Soooo, since we have our carbon road bikes (Luv them), what would be a good all around bike to compliment them? I don't see us ever getting in to mountain biking, but always wanted to try some gravel, packed dirt. It would be nice if this could double as a winter bike in case we get caught out in the NW rain, with tires that could handle the winter road debris.

Someone here mentioned the Salsa Vaya for one reason or another and after checking into it, I'm wondering what you ladies might think. Also, would a cross be a better fit? No intentions of touring at this time, but again I never would have pictured me as a roady either! Cycling is an ever evolving adventure!

And speaking of fit, I'm 5'1" and way closer to my 60 birthday than my 50th! Possibly time for the triple? Not too heavy a bike either.

Ok ladies, what do I (we) NEED?