GDMBR vs. Tour Divide Routes?

[MrBent]

Hey, Touring Junkies:

I saw that starting in 2016, I think, the Tour Divide Race totally by-passes Rawlins, WY, to avoid long, on-going construction.  The variation goes through Wamsutter, seemingly following Rd. #23. I'm hoping to do the GDMBR next year and wonder if anyone has info or experience with the variation.  One site said the variation was shorter but more difficult.  Anyone know what the deal is around Rawlins?  We had a good layover there during a paved edition of the GDMBR that we pieced together.

Thanks.

Scott