In terms of difficulty, the Shield is a moderate route, requiring sustained use of aid climbing techniques including, for most climbers, pitons. However, in terms of esthetics, it rates very high among other El Capitan routes for its headwall, which is absolutely flawless and constantly overhanging. Yves Briere (whom I knew only from the internet) and I climbed the Shield in June 1994, spending five nights on the wall.
[CLICK on any picture to see a larger image and details, to add to selection, to order, and to download wallpaper.]
