How about a 'cross bike that's setup with a flip flop hub and ridden mostly fixed? Check out the IRO Rob Roy for an awesome bike.

Load it up with racks, fenders and panniers and enjoy the more comfortable, upright cyclocross position, the ability to ride wider tires in the winter AND a single speed or fixed for less hassle, fun and a great workout!

I'm convinced I can ride Glacier National Park (Going to the Sun Rd. E. to W.) on my fixie with the right ratio, and enjoy it just as much as a gear bike. Going down the West side is the only concern I have...it's a long way down!