I like them both, but I prefer the cropped version. It is more minimalistic, the focus is on the lone person and the endlessness given by the posts and railings disappearing into the mist. It reflects the title very well.
I believe most people shooting the same scene would naturally have a higher shooting position. That would probably ruin the image. With your shooting position, the railings gives exactly the right lines into the picture.
Very nice shot!