A single speed sounds ideal for the Valley.
Here's mine, a 94 Schwinn Crosscut. 1st pic is of its conversion when I completed it.
CrossCut by
WNG555, on Flickr
Gravel-tested, owner-approved. A fun and fast ride.
48 at 48-11 by
WNG555, on Flickr
I'm sorry, but something that was built when I was in high school is not allowed to be considered C&V. I rebuke it. (nice bike, though!)