Beginner trail bike for Colorado + bikepacking — Salsa Horsethief SLX vs other options?

Howdy folks, looking for some advice on my first full suspension mountain bike.

I’m 6’ and 180 lbs, based out of Winter Park, CO.

​My heart was set on a Salsa Horsethief SLX, but it’s proving impossible to find in stock right now. I have about $2,500 to spend and I'm looking for a "do-it-all" rig that can handle:

​Local Trails: Technical climbing and flowy singletrack around the Valley.

​Bikepacking: Multi-day trips where I need decent frame space for bags and a comfortable pedaling platform.

​Easing into Downhill: I’m starting to hit the bike park and want something that won't feel completely terrified on some moderate DH runs.

​I actually found a Salsa Blackthorn SLX under $2,500, but I’m worried it might be "too much bike." I’ve heard it’s a beast on the downs, but I don’t want to feel like I’m dragging a tank uphill or on 30-mile bikepacking days.

Definitely open to other suggestions

Cheers