Unfortunately- this is just another example of meadows management's arrogant attitude. Go ahead - make them the bad guy, suit fits.
Course the reason we go hike there is the same reason many of us hold passes - relatively easy access to interesting terrain.
So, when choosing to deal with the devil, I take precautions not to meet him face to face. Park outside the gate, and and watch for maintenance activities.
Sometimes there is interesting stuff in the summer lot.
Cheers.