Pros & cons
PROS
- Easy roadside viewing from Courthouse Towers pullout with parking and restrooms
- Photogenic golden-hour views; reflections possible after rain
CONS
- Parking can be limited at peak times
- Midday light is harsh and summer heat can be intense
Overview
Three slender Entrada Sandstone spires, about 350 feet tall, line up like friends in conversation—hence the name. Set in the Courthouse Towers area, The Three Gossips is one of the park’s most recognizable silhouettes and an easy win if you’re short on time.
What You’ll See
From the roadside viewpoint you’ll get a classic profile of the trio, often framed with nearby Sheep Rock, The Organ, and Tower of Babel. The grouping looks almost human, which is exactly why photographers love it. For a closer perspective, some visitors drop into the wash on the east side for low-angle shots—slickrock can be slick, so step carefully.
Getting There & Access
Pull into the Courthouse Towers viewpoint along the main park road. From here, The Three Gossips is front and center without any real hiking required. A short wander toward the wash brings you closer, but it’s optional.
Photography Tips
- Best light is early morning or late afternoon when the spires glow and shadows add shape.
- After rain, shallow potholes can hold water and create mirror-like reflections.
- Common compositions include Sheep Rock to the right to tell the broader Courthouse Towers story.
Geology Snapshot
Carved from Jurassic-age Entrada Sandstone, the same stuff that builds many of the park’s arches and fins, these towers were sculpted by wind and water over millions of years. The anthropomorphic forms are part of what makes Courthouse Towers so striking.
Climbing Note
The Three Gossips has established technical routes and a mountaineering history, but it’s soft sandstone and not for beginners. Seasonal raptor nesting closures can apply; climbers should verify current restrictions before any attempt.
Best Time to Visit
Catch it at sunrise or late afternoon for flattering light and fewer harsh shadows. It’s a quick stop, so slot it between longer hikes—morning is usually more comfortable in hot months. After a storm, swing by for those rare reflection shots.
Practical Notes
Courthouse Towers has a paved pullout, parking, and vault toilets, but no water. Expect crowds in peak season and limited shade anywhere near the formation.
Where it is
38.6359, -109.6037Tips for The Three Gossips
- 01Use the Courthouse Towers pullout for the best roadside view.
- 02Visit right after rain for puddle reflections of the spires.
- 03Include Sheep Rock in your frame to anchor wider compositions.
- 04For a closer angle, carefully descend toward the wash—slickrock can be slippery.
- 05If you climb, check for seasonal raptor closures before you go.
Amenities
Near The Three Gossips
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayCourthouse TowersSkyscraper-like spires with easy roadside views and glowing lightTrailhead · Pullout
0.3 mi awayThe OrganRoadside monolith with prime sunrise light in Courthouse Towers
0.3 mi awayTower of BabelRoadside sandstone monolith, great at golden hour and for starsPullout · Parking
0.8 mi awayPark Avenue ViewpointSandstone skyscrapers lining a grand canyon boulevard near the entranceTrailhead · Parking
0.8 mi awayPark Avenue TrailShort canyon stroll between stone skyscrapers near the park entrance.Easy · 2 mi · 1 hr
0.9 mi awayLower Courthouse Wash RouteQuiet, water-filled canyon walk with shade, swims, and rock artModerate · 5.5 mi · 3.5 hr
2.3 mi awayCourthouse Wash TrailShady canyon wade with rock art and rare solitude in ArchesModerate · 5.5 mi · 0 min
2.3 mi awayCourthouse Wash Rock Art Panel TrailShort roadside stroll to a striking multi-era rock art panelEasy · 0.8 mi · 45 min
