I have a 54/42 and 53/39 rings for my TT bike. Initially, i purchased it with 54/42 and then purchased a Quarq Power meter which came with 53/39 rings. Since this is a racing forum, there is another small consideration which is gear tooth friction. There is more friction with smaller gears. So running a larger chain ring allows the use of larger rear cogs and the overall friction of the drive train is reduced.

The 7 miles gaining 1000 feet is approximately a 2.8% grade. I would use my 54/42 rings with an 11/xx cassette to get the advantage of the 54/11 on the downhill especially if the wind were at my back on the descent and keep the power and cadence up.