Just my 2 cents-I see a lot of these threads where the LHT gets counted out of being a do-all bike because it's intended as a dedicated tourer. Well, I have not had a problem with the LHT as a tourer, overnight bike camper, commuter, road bike and even mountain bike, depending on how much I mess with racks, fenders and tyres.
The Cross Check is a great bike, but don't sell the LHT short on versatility, especially if you're short enough for the 26" wheels-Mountain stuff is still very nicely priced in comparison to road/cyclocross stuff, and the question of durability isn't as pronounced.
Good Luck!