Differs from typical gordius from the cast in its smaller size and more constrasted maculation, the costa and inner margin of forewing being shaded with deep smoky whilst the central portion of the wing is suffused with whitish shades, especially preceding the wavy subterminal dark line. Between this line and the outer margin of the wing the teriminal area is heavily suffused with deep smoky, in contradistinction to gordius borealis Clark in which this region is sprinkled with whitish, more as in the typical form. The dark intravenular streaks are reduced, much as in gordius oslari R. & J. from Colorado, but from this race the smaller size and the better defined transverse lines will distinguish it. Expanse 70 mm.