Tire Novice Needs Advice

I just got a used MTB, a Kona Kula Deluxe, which has 26 inch tires. The bike is in good condition but needs new tires.

I would be most grateful to any of you women of experience who can give me some pointers on how to pick out the right tires.

Useful details:

- conditions are dry, loose soil and sand, gravel, rocks, rarely mud
- no jumping or freeride/downhilling
- love to ride fast on the loose stuff
- my favorite trail is very twisty, so cornering ability is important to me
- I weigh about 140 lbs.
- traction on loose uphills would be good - I need all the help I can get!

Thanks!

Sandrider