Greetings Velocivixen, Sounds like you have been getting some good rides in. I will not be in the pdx ride... i live in the west mid-valley. Our next big ride will be back roads of Independance/Buena Vista and Ankeny wildlife refuge. We also want to try the rail trail from Banks to Vernonia, or at least a section. I am just starting to do research on bike events for our region. There is a ride that looks interesting on the Umpqua. 20,46 or 66 miles! http://purplefootgang.com/ride-routes/ You are lucky to have a friend guide you in the do's and don't. there was one hill on the monster cookie ride where the down hill scared me to death! lol.

Keep riding and enjoy.