Ah....the old HT vs FS debate. I live in MI, so I can't comment on WI terrain, but it it's anything like metro detroit, FS is not necessary. BUT...you mention you want to go on some bike trips, so I would get a FS.

The only reason I would recommend HT over FS is if you plan on racing (assuming terrain is similar to MI of course). If you don't plan on racing and plan trips out west, stick with FS, maybe something like 4-5 inches of travel.

Depending on your budget, some bikes I'm digging right now are.....

Turner Flux or 5.5Spot
BMC Fourstroke or Trailfox
Salsa El Santo

My husband had the Klien Palomino for a while (uses Maverick suspension design) and he loved it. It was one of his favorite bikes, so based on that, I would think the Maverick would be a good choice also.