@jdb; regarding HT vs a full sus, the point I’m trying to make is this. Both will do and accomplish what you want to do. I equate it to traveling across the country in a basic car or in a luxury SUV. It’s flying overseas in coach or first class. You will reach your destination either way, it’s just that one will be a different experience and possibly a better choice depending on your goals. So I would’t spend a bunch of money making that basic car fancy, when you may change your mind and want to purchase something different in the future. You can always change out components later (new drivetrain, AXS, dropper, carbon wheels, etc.). There is no “need” to do that up front and spend a bunch of money that you won’t see on resale.
I took my 100mm f/r XC race bike to CO, UT and Scotland with a group that was on trail bikes and Enduro bikes. I rode everything they did and my XC bike was capable. I had a blast and never needed anything more. However, I can’t deny that a bike with more travel would have been more capable, enjoyable and forgiving. Then again, if you’ve never driven a luxury SUV or flown first class and compared the difference, you never know what you’re missing.