So I finally pulled the trigger. Sold of an old bike and turned it into a new mtb. Even though I originally planned for about $600-700 I managed to get something for a little over $520 out the door.

Talon 27.5 4 (2015) (2014) | Giant Bicycles | United States

Condisering it such a cheap bike, I have to say I'm pretty happy with it. The 27.5" wheels make rolling over anything pretty effortless but still feel more in controll then a 29er. The shock is clearly the weak point here, but at this price point if functions well enough and the lockout works great. I can tell I'm not thrilled with the 8speed rd because the spacing just seems too high. Personally I think id get along better with closer ratios, but maybe that's just because I'm used to road riding. The hydraulic disks work like a charm and everything shifts fairly well. The rd has a little problem under heavy load, but nothing major. Luckily mountain parts are dirt cheap, so upgrades are not out of the question.

I ended up at Tiger mountain for my first ride. After some post ride reaserch, I found that I did the most difficult trail...backwards. That would explain why I did so much time walking. The ride was comfy and the bike handled well. It was only my first ride so of course it was a bit sketchy, but I just need to learn the bike a bit better. And work on my balance. Overall I ha a blast and can't wait to get back out. Personally, I'm not that impressed with the road rideing is Washington, but the mountains were more that insprieing.
[MENTION=18012]forest[/MENTION]: I was in the same boat as you and that's why I decided to go with something cheap for my first mtb. It's something I really wanted to get into but seing as I spend most of my time on te road I just couldn't be bothered with it. But I tell you man, I'm glad I did. If you like nature and don't mind getting a bit dirty then you'll have a blast.