Embodiments described herein relate to a self-extending/retracting gate for a platform. In one embodiment, safety gate includes a housing that extends laterally from a back support attached to the platform. The gate includes a sliding member that is operable to retract at least partially into the housing toward the back support to substantially conceal the sliding member within the housing and provide an opening beyond the housing for users to access the platform and to extend from an opening of the housing away from the back support to block access to the platform while the housing supports the sliding member. The gate includes a gate movement assembly within the housing between a rear portion of the sliding member and the back support. The gate movement assembly is operable to cause the sliding member to extend from the housing and retract into the housing according to a height of the platform.