I'm relatively new to MTB. I bought an REI Co-op DRT 1.1 hardtail about 2 years ago. It's decent but I ride with guys who have full-suspension Santa Cruz or Cannondale bikes and they can manage to get up more tricky terrain. I find myself walking my bike more than I'd like.
I've seen some 6 or 7 year old seemingly better bikes on FB marketplace for $600-800 like a Ghost Kato FS 7
Is that decent upgrade from a hardtail while on a budget? What's the best options for upgrades under $1000?
It's mostly rocky hilly terrain and some gravel narrow tracks in central Texas.
Seconded. On a hardtail, skill and endurance being equal, you should smoke your full suspension buddies on the uphills. Ride your bike and have fun. Sorry I don't have advice to share on budget upgrades.