Taffy said:
another valued opinion i suggest will be velo's when he happens upon this thread.
Velo? That guy's a drunken lecherous *****. So it makes sense that you would value his opinion, lol.
Seriously, China Hat (oregon) has an awful lot going for it. AFAIK, it's about 20 mins or more into town tho. I've only been there to race, and we just camped. The logistics of staying somewhere w/o onsite hotels need to be dealt with, but I'm sure many folks would camp, and the bikes could stay at camp, so hotel-dwellers could carpool out in the morning perhaps? The willingness of boss to step up to the plate is a huge point in favor of oregon. Plus the area has maps readily available, and is well-signed, so even furriners will be able to go out riding w/o a local guide.
The riding at china hat is fun, but not difficult for experts. I think it is more accessible and enjoyable for mixed-skill groups than moab. That is big plus, imho.
Are we set on march? That definitely limits the available areas, but that's ok if it's a convenient time for folks to travel.
Honestly, the most important part of the whole event (I learned this the hard way) is the camaraderie and getting together with other folks. Great and new scenery is important, and good riding is important, but getting together is the main thing.
For me, personally, anywhere in the west is doable.