Pummel Peak is the easternmost and highest of five 6,000 ft. summits in the eastern portion of the Chisos mountain Range of Big Bend National Park. These five peaks are separated from the high summits near and surrounding The Basin by a pass called Smuggler's Gap (approx. 5500 ft.) which divides the Pummel Massif from the Lost Mine, Crown, Emory, and Pulliam Massifs. Crowds are non-existent once you begin your bushwhack and expect solitude on the summit as this one sees few ascents each year.

Although just a few miles from the Panther Junction headquarters of Big Bend National Park, the peak is one of the more difficult peaks to get to because of the rugged nature of the desert surrounding the peak. No trails get anywhere near the summit and the closest access is a rough high clearance road. To top it off, Pummel is capped with a 150 ft. dome that's easiest route is a low 5th class and unprotectable pitch. Despite it's difficult access and difficult
final pitch, Pummel stands as one of Big Bend's classic summits. Views from the summit are
incredible in all directions and the final summit pitch is a fun alternative to peaks like Emory and
the South Rim that have trails all the way.

Important Information:

Pummel is not recommended in the summer because of intense heat and lack of water. Take at least 3 quarts of water in the winter
and a gallon in the spring or fall.
Long pants are mandatory as the desert plant life surrounding the peak is ferocious in places.
Mountain Lions, rattlesnakes, and scorpions are all present in Big Bend National Park so caution and good judgement should be used.
Although winter is the best time to climb in Big Bend, cold and wind can be a problem at times so bring warm clothing and
wind protection during cold spells.
A high clearance vehicle is recommended for access to the trailhead although 4x4 is not necessary.

View from the Summit

Looking West from the Summit of Pummel

Getting There

Driving information from Major Airports
City	Distance	Yahoo Driving Directions
Midland/Odessa	217 miles	MAF to Big Bend Entrance
El Paso	323 miles	ELP to Destination

The Chisos Mountains from the North. Photo by 01aCRViper.

Pine Canyon:

If you are entering the park on State Highway 385 from the north, drive approximately 26 miles south of the entrance until the road dead ends at Panther Junction. Make a left turn on Highway 118 and drive approximately 5 miles. Make a right turn on Glen Springs Road. Drive 2.3 miles to the intersection of Glen Springs Road and the road up Pine Canyon. Continue straight towards Pine canyon. At mile 4.1 (after turning off of 118) the road will dead end at the Pine Canyon Trailhead.

If you are entering the park on Highway 118 from the west, drive approximately 31 miles (about 5 miles past Panther Junction) from the town of Terlingua/Study Butte. Make a right turn and drive 2.3 miles down the Glen Springs Road to the intersection of Glen Springs Road and the road up Pine Canyon. Continue straight towards Pine canyon. At mile 4.1 (after turning off of 118) the road will dead end at the Pine Canyon trailhead.

Red Tape

There is a $15 entrance fee per vehicle that lasts 7 days. There is no charge per person.

If you choose to stay at the Pine Canyon Backcountry Camp overnight, you will need to pick up a free permit at the Panther Junction Ranger Station.

Camping or Lodging

Chisos Basin has 63 tent sites that cost $10 per night. 26 of these sites can be reserved from November 15th to April 15th. All remaining sites remain on a first come first serve basis. Campsite reservations may be made through the internet at Reserve USA or by calling 1.877.444.6777.

Pine Canyon Backcountry Camp is located just a short distance from the trailhead. Backcountry camping is free but requires a permit. Permits can be obtained in person at park visitor centers up to 24 hours in advance.

Lodging is available nearby in The Basin. Information on lodging in The Basin as well as nearby locations can be found here and here.

See also the Chisos Mountains Lodge homepage.

Contact Information

Big Bend National Park
PO Box 129
Big Bend National Park, TX 79834-0129

Email: BIBE_Info@nps.gov
Phone: 432-477-2251
Fax: 432-477-1175

Big Bend National Park Web Page

Current Weather Conditions and Forecast

Images