Originally Posted by whosmatt

I can't really get a gist of your route from the pic, but if any significant portion of your commute is on the road, and your trail isn't too rugged, a cross bike is a good choice. Generally they're really versatile, and as your cycling grows, you can use them on or off road, for more advanced riding than you'll ever get out of a hybrid. Is it as good as a good road bike on pavement? Can be close. Is it as good as a MTB off road? Probably not. Better than a hybrid in both cases? IMO, yes.