Gothic, Colorado

Gothic is a small settlement in Gunnison County located at approximately 9,500 feet elevation in the West Elk Mountains. The place consists of historic structures from the mining era and houses the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory, a research center focused on high-altitude environments.

The settlement began as a silver mining area in the 1870s and grew rapidly to support about 1,000 residents. After the silver market collapsed in 1914, the town was abandoned until scientist Dr. John Johnson purchased it and established the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory.

The name reflects the architectural style of its early mining era buildings, which still dot the landscape. Today, the place serves as a hub for environmental research and attracts scientists and students who share an interest in mountain ecosystems and field studies.

The settlement is accessible from Crested Butte via a roughly 7 mile dirt road. In winter, roads may be snow-covered, so prepare for snowmobiles, cross-country skis, or snowshoes if visiting during cold months.

A long-term marmot study spanning over 50 years contributes to understanding climate change impacts on alpine animals. This research was among the first places where scientists tracked the lasting consequences of shifting seasons.