Mountain Biking - Recommend a hybrid/comfort bike

I am a 52 year old male looking for a comfort or hybrid bike that lies slightly on the off road end of the spectrum. My riding will consist mostly of joy riding on gravel and dirt country roads. I am looking for something with a relaxed/upright geometry because my lower back hurts when riding a mountain bike. My price range is 300-450ish. I would like front suspension and possibly a seat post suspension. Something with a wide range of gears would be good. My area is hilly. Steel or aluminum frame would be fine. A comfy seat is a must. Thank you.

Specialized used to make the Expedition that would have been perfect
http://www.specialized.com/us/en/bc/SBCBkModel.jsp?spid=22031

How about a Trek Navigator?
http://www.trekbikes.com/us/en/bikes/bike_path/navigator/navigator20/


Giant Sedona?
http://www.giant-bicycles.com/en-US/bikes/lifestyle/2304/32213/

GT Timberline?
http://www.performancebike.com/shop/profile.cfm?SKU=26104&subcategory_ID=3060

I have experience building the Trek and the Spec. They are both pretty quality bikes. We sold a ton of them the summer of 07. I learned how to do a proper wheelie on a Expedition.

This here might be of interest too..

http://landriderbikes.com

If you aren't doing single track at all, the Giant Cypress is great for dirt and gravel, and still road worthy enough for commuting. If there is any chance that you will ride single track then the smaller 26 inched wheel like on the Sedona would be a better choice.
(Not saying Giant is the only choice, just using them as an Example)