Cyclocross and touring bikes make pretty good all around bikes. Consider other touring bikes besides the surly. Jamis Aurora, Fuji touring are both around $800 with STI shifters. The Tri-cross is more expensive, lighter, and a really good all around bike as well. I have no experience with Surly LHT, other than I passed up buying a complete one because of the bar end shifters.
O own a tri-cross and an Aurora. Very satisfied with both.