Abstract: In accordance with illustrative embodiments of the present invention, a gate latch apparatus includes a frame having spaced side members, a ring pivotally mounted between the side members, and means to limit outward swinging of the ring. A support rigidly secured with respect to the frame has a horizontal portion and an inclined portion to aid the user in positioning a latch bar on the horizontal portion where operation of the latch is assured. The bar causes the ring to swing inwardly during closure, and the ring drops downward upon passage of the bar to latch the gate closed. To release the latch, the ring is lifted to enable the bar to be removed from the support.