Carrying a very light load, occasional use only, more upright position, capable of good quality gravel trails, you could use just about any kind of bike that a commuter would want. If you are only considering a few models, you likely have already ruled out a lot of other bikes.

Ask the bike shop if you can ride both bikes around the parking lot for a while and see what you think of the handling. Do that when the shop is not very busy so the lot is nearly empty. Put a 10 pound weight on the rack when you do that so you have an idea of how the bike would feel. If you want less or more reach or a higher handlebar position, a different stem is cheap and an easy way for a better custom fit.

After you decide on which to get, start thinking about what kind of saddle you want for a 4 or 5 or 6 hour day.

And you might want fenders for days when the trail is wet, look at the amount of fender clearance and maximum size tires you can fit inside fenders. My photo is from my ride on the C&O, thus my comments on fenders.