Eagle Gate Monument

This arachnid-looking structure towers over a bustling city street in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah. As you approach this intimidating structure, you start to make out the fine details that went into erecting this behemoth of a monument. It gives the impression that the city is being overtaken by an eagle-eyed spider.

The Eagle Gate is a well-known historic landmark, honoring the original gateway constructed in 1859 by Brigham Young, which once marked the entrance to his estate and the road leading to City Creek Canyon. When the road later became public and the original gates were taken down, the arch—featuring an eagle perched atop a beehive—remained as a symbolic structure. Over time, it has been rebuilt twice: first in the late 19th century and again in 1963.

Today, the Eagle Gate stands as a prominent symbol of the city’s pioneer heritage and is also recognized for its mid-century modern architectural style. Its cultural significance has inspired the names of various local buildings and businesses, such as Eagle Gate College and the former Eagle Gate Plaza and Tower, now known as the World Trade Center at City Creek.