A counterweighted, crowd gate includes parallel overhead tracks extending from end to end of a holding area for cows. A wheeled carriage extends between and rides on the tracks. An electric motor drives the carriage between the entrance and exit of the holding area. A counterweighted gate pivotally attached to the carriage extends perpendicularly to the floor of the holding area. A latch on the carriage holds the gate in essentially a vertical orientation. An operator trips the latch and the counterweight pivots the gate to a substantially horizontal position, so the gate passes over animals in the holding area upon return to the entrance. The gate is pivotally mounted to the carriage by bushings that electrically insulate the gate from the carriage to prevent harm to animals or individuals that come in contact with the gate. A control panel allows operation of the crowd gate from a remote location.