I looked at the specs of the camber, there seems to be a big mix of shimano, Sram, and formula brakes. The Fuel is full XT right down to the rotors. It seems that specialized put a bag of parts together to hit a price point. While it may work together fine I like a complete package. The geometry is similar between the two with the fuel being slightly more slack (may not even be noticeable riding). The wheel base seems like it is shorter across the board which should handle tight trails slightly better. The suspension on the Trek is better. What it seems to come down to is better components or carbon frame. I know the trek has a life time frame warranty while I suspect the carbon camber does not. I can say from experience Trek has been good to me with my frame warranty. After owning a Fuel 29 I thought it to be a great bike. It is efficient and handles a wide variety of trails. I would buy the Trek as it leaves little to be desired off the showroom floor and considering you riding in Utah I would want the little more suspension travel. Try to work in a deal that includes the new style rhythm elite wheels. I have found a good set of wheels can really make a difference. Also there is a guy in the Trek forum that just bought a Fuel EX9 and had the wheel upgrade along with a carbon bar and a couple other upgrades. Hit him up, he has a very nicely equipped bike set up perfect for your riding area.