I'll always defer to you for Belgian recommendations...
Founder's Centennial was one of my early loves in terms of craft beers, and I still love it. It's definitely more drinkable than Devil Dancer or Double Trouble (the other two Founders ipa's.) I would agree with your friend that it's a great choice to convert a non-ipa person.
However, if you're somebody who's just never going to like hoppy beers, you might opt for something that's less typical of an ipa. A more malt (rather than hop) forward ipa, like Laughing Dog's Sneaky Pete. Or something with a spicey twist, like Bear Republic's Hop Rod Ryevalry. Or a Belgian IPA, like Flying Dog Raging Bitch. Or a black ipa (more roasty), like Victory Yakima Glory.
We've done a number of Washington backpack trips. One of my favorite places in the world. No doubt Oregon will be as well. We'll try to get in as much hiking, camping, beer/wine/food culture (Portland, Bend, Seattle), and Bumbershoot Festival as a four year old and her mom can take...
If you like exceedingly hoppy ipa's, it's one you need to try. (I seem to recall you not being in that category).
It doesn't come cheap. I bought a single 12 oz when in NYC for $5.25 (at a beer store). It may already be gone from area shelves.
To be honest, it's a bit much for me. And I normally like my ipa's extra hoppy (The only other ipa that was too much for me was Dogfish 120). My wife loved it though. Said it tasted like "liquid weed." Whatever that means.
founders's devil dancer . . . worth the look? only seen it, never enjoyed.
thank you for your input on the beer. i get my founders mixed up, and the beer i realized i need opinion on was founders centennial ipa, if you have had it. i was informed that this beer was the beer to alter my taste towards liking ipas. your positions on beer are outranking mine . . . i know this and i accept this. 
have a great time on your trip. i explored washington state once, but not for bars or beer, but for the incredibeness of the area. enjoy those beautiful trees.
