Get a 29er! I have a Felt Nine Sport and love it!



http://www.feltbicycles.com/USA/2012...ne-Series.aspx
The trail is within your budget, or buy the Sport when your Felt dealer has 10% off.

If you want a 26er
http://www.feltbicycles.com/USA/2012.../Q-Series.aspx

I had a Giant Revel 2 for a while, but it wasn't as fun as the nine!

Carlos

Edit: I just saw that you're short. Nevermind, stick to the 26ers.