realskiers

I ran a slant 6 rear for most of the summer, an OK tire, but mostly anything works in the rear if you expect it to slide sideways - I've run small blocks, Exiwolves, and some other skinny treads in the rear with some success.

I'll second Liam, that The Nevegal is a pretty good choice for the front.  I hate an unpredictable front end and have never had a tire as predictable as the Nevegal.  (disclaimer - we ride the same places).  Combine the Nev in the front and a fast rolling tire in the back and your net is very reasonable...

The only time to run a small-block in new-england is mid-winter on crusty snowmobile trails with about 20lbs of pressure.  It works really well in both the 26 and 29 inch size.