Comparing the picture with google satellite photos and a 1964 Western Pacific Engineering Track Chart given to me by my Grandfather, it appears that RGCX nailed it.

The picture, satellite photo, and the track chart all agree in specifics; the Rock Creek Reservoir to the left, the leftward curvature leading to the bridge, about a 1000ft of tangent, then a right hand curve following the river around the bend. Five car lengths to the bridge places the camera right at mile post 259, about 450ft west of bridge 259.08, looking railroad east; or 400 ft east of tunnel 21. The camera is just over one mile west of Belden. Of the four bridges shown in the track chart between Belden and Cresta, this is the only bridge that fits the picture.


The tangent track being approximately 18 degrees east, with the summer sun several degrees further to the west, it would appear to be mid to late afternoon. Moreover, with the camera facing railroad east, pointing towards the direction of travel; the train is eastbound. And that is consistent with the Zephyr's schedule (morning westbound, afternoon eastbound.

By George, I think he's got it!

OPB