Face Full o' Bush sits along a rugged northwest-facing wall in The Zoids, part of Castlewood Canyon State Park’s lesser-traveled southern approach near Denver, Colorado. This brief but lively 30-foot climb invites trad climbers into a concentrated pocket of technical moves balanced between delicate face holds and a gritty crack system. The defining feature—a bush boldly growing mid-crack—adds both character and a touch of unpredictable nature to the ascent. Approaching the climb you’ll cross a rough terrace that prepares you for the exposure ahead, as the rock demands careful footwork and steady balance along the vertical face.

Though short, the route packs in solid traditional climbing challenges framed by Castlewood’s rugged sandstone texture, testing your gear placements and attention to subtle holds. The crack holds classic trad opportunities, while the face sections require keen route reading and body positioning. This spot isn’t for climbers seeking long, pumped routes; instead, it offers an engaging moment of concentrated effort where precision pays off.

Protection demands a standard trad rack and additional slings to safely establish the top rope anchor, which sits above the bush-strewn crack. The presence of vegetation means extra caution is needed when choosing placements, as bush branches can interfere with gear placements or handholds. Climbers are encouraged to embrace the quirky aspect of this climb—it’s not every day you literally climb through a bush rising from the rock.

The surrounding area perks up with views typical of Castlewood Canyon State Park: dry, scrubby vegetation punctuated by sculpted cliffs and open sky. The northwest aspect ensures afternoon shade, making it a decent choice for climbing on warmer days in spring and fall. Approaching Face Full o' Bush involves a short trek over uneven terrain that rewards your effort with a quiet stretch of rock away from crowded areas. As one of the few single-pitch routes here catering to trad skills, it offers a fresh change of pace from the more widely known cliffs.

Local climbers recommend checking foothold security since the rock can be crumbly in spots, and keeping a close eye on weather conditions since rain quickly makes this textured sandstone slippery. Despite its brief length, Face Full o' Bush demands a confident mindset and readiness for an out-of-the-ordinary ascent. It’s a fun, practical route for those looking to sharpen trad moves within a compact, striking setting just a short drive from Denver. Whether topping out for bragging rights or refining gear placements, the route extends an invitation to meet the rock on its own terms—and yes, expect a brush with the wild side.