Today the really GOOD spot for photos is just west of the curve, on the hillside north of the tracks. This seems to be where the "serious" photographers are going. While there is no charge to shoot here, it requires quite a hike to get in there. You get a really nice view of the curve from here, as you can see in this well-done video by OGR Forum Member Dave Slie.
That hike isn't for the faint of heart, and it's very limited in the amount of people you can fit in there, but it IS a very nice view. It's a much more difficult hike if you can't find the trail and go up the opposite slope up to the access road, and then have to hike the remainder along the edge of the ballast as I did the other day. I did it and survived, but I wouldn't suggest anyone trying that way! Just be sure to be there way ahead of time and wear some sturdy hiking shoes.
Must say the dreary and misty weather on Sunday was just about perfect for photography there much moreso than the intermittent sun on Saturday. Just something about wet weather and steam that makes for some great shots.
Kevin
