Don't fight it or you'll crash. Keep your weight back on steep descents and bend slightly at the elbows and knees to soak up shocks. In the fall, leaves often obscure the trail, so be careful of hidden roots and rocks which will likely be slippery from moisture. Gear East Coast riding is, pure and simple, about mud and water. A suspension fork is a big plus, and make sure it has boots or wiper seals to keep mud and grit from contaminating the internals.
Fenders are also useful, particularly front models.
At the very least a Crud Catcher on the downtube helps cut down on spray from the front wheel. A wet conditions chain lube is also helpful. SPD-type clipless pedals will tend to jam in mud. All three of us used Time's excellent ATAC pedal and had no difficulties engaging or clipping out of the system. Helmets are required by the resort, so bring one even if you normally don't use one.