I'd go for the afternoon shot. Of course I haven't been out there in 20+ years, so I really couldn't tell you what access is like anymore.

Waaaaaay back in the day, We used to camp, photograph and party at Altamont Summit with great regularity and impunity! Heck, batchelor parties took place there...

Ahem, back to business. If you can, hike up the hill on the north side of the tracks. Look around and you may see evidence of the old wye for turning helpers on the WP. Don't know about now, but remains of the old Espee turntable pit may to be visible near the hay barn. Again, it's been many years since I last visited. Once the Espee tracks were pulled, and things started turning yellow, I pretty much lost interest.

This time of year, the weather can be a crapshoot, but you have green hills and wild mustard flowers to add color. Good luck!

sad