Coming from a 'middle-aged-approaching-senior'-woman rider: if possible, have her check out the Jamis Coda line. (I have a 2009 Sport, but I understand the current levels of the Coda are different.) Mine is all steel; the ride and shifting are smooth, handling wonderful. It's zippy and should have no trouble doing the rides your friend is planning-as long as she herself is up to the task.

Other suggestions in this genre might be the Specialized Vita or Sirrus, the Cannondale Quick, or the Fuji Absolute. I believe these are aluminum-framed bikes; it's a matter of personal preference.

Oh, and how could I forget the Trek FX line! They are very popular as well.