I tried to take this route on July 3rd 2008 and there was a gate right after the mine around 11,000 feet. Adding about a mile and a half walk along the road to the beginning of the trip. I don't know if it is a seasonal gate, as there is still a little snow on the road in one spot. However it looked permanent and had symbols for no motorized transportation past that point. If this is a permanent gate it makes the hike just as long as the traditional route.
Ick! That's too bad. I do not know what the gate is about, however with the recent debacle over mining claims in Colorado and property concerns, this could very well be another similar situation. Thanks for the heads-up.