How to unlock hidden layer?

I created a new route by merging 4 different routes by others. I wanted all the route objects on the same layer so I merged them all to the route layer. All of the existing objects disappeared. The only objects that remain are what I added. When I try to copy and paste onto these areas it state I can not because of a "hidden locked layer". When I open the layer tab there is the route and session layers and both have the "eye". There is no other layers. I have tried restoring a backup before this mess but nothing change. Any ideas?
Thanks
Chuck

Just a quick question, from your description the "eye" is open (not closed) but is the padlock symbol locked or unlocked?

Yes eye is open and the padlock is unlocked.