just to throw a small wrench into the thought process. Depending on terrain, I would argue that suspension is highly overrated. For mildly technical and non technical trails I think suspension is a waste of money and adds to frustration. IN addition to "mt bikes" consider a "fat bike" or some of the nice new steel "adventure bikes" If there is a Salsa or Surly dealer close to you go visit.

I actually ride a Surly Disc Trucker with a 2" tire on a large variety of trails in Idaho and I ride with loaded panniers for adventure bike camping and do pretty well - okay I did have to walk a sandy stretch last week but I just need more tread on my tires. I have my eye on the new Surly ECR but we sold my size before I even got to ride it around the parking lot so now
am waiting for another to arrive.