If I were you, Joe, I'd use three ties spaced about seven feet apart, with one in the middle, perpendicular to the track. Then I'd nail 2x6 or 2x8 planks 8 feet long across them parallel to the track. That way, the ties would bridge the ditch along the west side of the main track so that folks could easily step up onto the field at Top of the Mountain. You'd have to be very careful if there is much snow, to clear any snow off the platforms so it wouldn't pack down and make them slippery. If properly spaced, two platforms would accommodate three cars. These platforms would also work quite well for Victorian Christmas, placed along the west side of the Alna Center passing track north of the crossing.
At other photo locations, if there is snow on the ground, clear similar areas so that folks are not stepping off into deep snow. The other option is to stop the trains with the platforms on crossings, such as Rose Wood and Sutters -- which also would need some snow cleared.