Hey EVOMTB,

If you can manage to afford the Nail Trail, go for that one. Marin makes good bikes. The current Bicycling Magazine recommends the Nail Trail. Here's what they say:

BUY IT IF: You're an avid beginner looking for you first "real" mountain bike. THIS BIKE ROCKS BECAUSE: Its solid geometry and quality parts (Avid disc brakes) provide all-conditions confidence.

I wanted to buy a Nail Trail last weekend, but my LBS didn't have one in stock. But they DID have a Marin Pine Mountain which I test rode and then bought. Of course, I spent $1200 instead of $800 but I am stoked on the bike so far. This is my second Marin. Maybe you can shop around and find a dealer who has one on sale. For example, the LBS I bought from was offering 10% off all bikes in the store. This saved me $130. Good luck.