Thanks Steve for your images and this opportunity.
Firstly I would like to share with you a few things I have learnt over the years.
I noticed in your explanation of the images there was a deal of comment about how long it took to hike, and how far you had to lug your equipment.... how much effort it took to get to the location you were photographing. I realise you were prpbably telling us this because you had to make a decision about where to go to get photographs, but just make sure that you don't get a misguided idea that the more difficult it is to get to a location , the better the images will be.
Secondly, Predicting what the light will be like 30 minutes earlier in a location is like asking how long is a piece of string. All you need is the cloud to be different or the atmosphere to be different, and presto - the lighting is different. Only people who live in that location can even come clost to helping you with how the light will be different 30 minutes earlier at a particular time of year, and even that is a big ask of them.
Thirdly...now this one may be controversial...but as a beginner as you mentioned, I would recommend that you do not go to any location for a couple of years with a preconcieved idea of what you are looking for in your photograph. I would suggest to be more spontaneous and just enjoy the location you choose and let the land speak to you. Get your head out of the way and listen to the colours of mountains and sky. Tune in and develop your observational and receptive skills before you start determining exactly how you want things to look. Your vision may actually be far less and limiting, than what may happen if you are there enjoying and immersing yourself in the act of photography. Learn to be open to exploring possibilities rather than focussing your mind on creating the idea that you have preconceived in your mind.
In light of what I have just said...just pick one location ... rock, paper scissors with a friend......and enjoy taking photographs!!
Julie