A hardtail mountain bike is a great choice if you primarily ride smoother trails, fire roads, or cross-country routes. With suspension only in the front fork, hardtails are lighter, pedal more efficiently on climbs, and cost less to maintain since there are fewer moving parts. They're also popular for bikepacking because you can easily mount gear on the rigid rear frame.
Hardtails shine for XC racing and riders on a budget who still want capable off-road performance. However, on rough, rocky terrain with extended descents, you'll feel more fatigue and have less traction compared to a full suspension bike. The rear wheel can bounce over obstacles rather than track the ground.
Don't assume hardtails are just for beginners—many experienced riders prefer them for their simplicity and efficiency. Just be realistic: if your local trails are full of chunky rocks and root sections, a full suspension bike will likely be more comfortable and confident.