I'll be doing the Oregon Stampede route as described on the link below this Labor Day weekend (short notice, I know). I'm based out of the Portland metro area and this is my first summer getting into bikepacking and loving it. I'm riding a Salsa Vaya with a set of bikepacking bags and still getting the kit dialed in. I did a 100 mile section of the Painted Hills Scenic Bikeway a couple weeks ago in 100+ degree heat without too much of a problem, and I'd like to do the Stampede probably over 2 days (Saturday-Sunday). I think it might be a good shakedown ride to meet fellow bikepackers/future bikepacking buddies. I'm 28, very easy going, into climbing, mountaineering, cycling, photography and generally in decent shape. I wouldn't say I'm a great cyclist, but as long as the water and calories are flowing, I can go for a while! If anyone in the Portland area feels like getting in an overnighter this weekend, let me know! Send a PM or post here.
http://www.oregonbikepacking.com/portfolio-posts/oregon-stampede/