RNCR train 831, with a 136 car unit train of potash in tow, battles the 2% grade on the long approach to Cabin Pass under a brilliant blue hour sunrise. The train is seen here crossing the massive Thunder creek bridge, with a manned helper set 3/4 of the way back assisting.
The mid-train remote, with the helper set visible on the far side of the valley
The manned helpers, with a former EMDX SD70ACe. The railroad purchased 3 of these former demos in 2012 and used them as SD70ACe-P6 testbeds
The tail-end remote, one of 5 units painted in a gold dip job that commemorated the railroads 50th anniversary of incorporation in 2015. The 50th markings have been patched out, but the gold scheme remains for now
831 would meet priority train 180 at the summit of Cabin Pass while removing their helper set. 180 is seen here at Thunder Creek about 90 mins later. Just over 200 cars in length, this was a massive train, with 3 DPUs
The grass looks fine to me. Gives the area a slightly neglected feel. Definitely matches the type of grasses on the low hills in the distance. The addition of "clutter" would add to the general "not quite important but necessary" touch to the scene.