This winter, try heading east on I-84 up the Columbia R. Gorge for some dry riding. About 60 miles east of Portland, the climate changes dramatically in maybe 20 miles. As you go east, near Cascade Locks the amount of winter precip starts to diminish. At The Dalles, you are in an arid zone. The bottom of the Gorge stays relativly warm, being at essentially sea level. There are many great loops starting off I-84 heading up some of the side canyons on both sides of the river. The rainfall usually quits at Hood River. Don't count on sun, but you will find dry roads unless there happens to be a system going through. Most Saturdays, there is a group ride leaving Hood River (Downtown, Oak Street, from the front of the local bike shop(s)) at around 8:30, a fairly "ag-ro" bunch..many times in winter heading east for 2-4 hours. Many rides entail some moderate climbs, usually with a re-group at each summit, within reason.
Don Hanson
out of Lyle, Wa.