I think I know about the stretch of Rock Creek that you're referring too, a big meadow area after the narrows around the Dalles section, I believe. That is a remote area to be sure, but certainly some nice cabins around there. I love Montana in the summer, but I wonder how much I'd like it in January...?
I was pretty fortunate as far as highway construction delays, with the exception of Interstate 80 through Nevada, where those people are eternally working on 80, and for NO good reason that I can see. 80 through Nevada is a great road, smooth and modern. They are always fixing a road that doesn't need to be fixed. Too bad they can't send some of that highway $$ to replace some of our crumbling interstate system here in California.
--FlyGuy (Dave)