I've got some great photos the past few years at the big curve, the shelf a little farther north, along with the high bridge. They have all come from riding the railfest specials and the various photo specials. The last few years during the Harper administration the railroad has done a fantastic job of picking photo spots for these specials with quite a variety of locations and several more runbys than they did 10 or so years ago.
I agree with the dangers that have been presented and there will be quite a few hiking in when next week comes a round but my advice would be to Ride the Train.