If you will be doing any touring I would go with the LHT. That is a more purpose built touring bike. The Salsa is more like a sport tourer, and better for commuting or long daily rides.

Me personally I was looking at both bikes, and even though I probably ride about 99% of my rides where the casseroll would be fine I got the LHT because I could fit much larger tires and also I liked the curved fork and color a lot better.