Glen Salach has been one of our arterial routes for centuries, connecting Loch Creran and Loch Etive.
During the Risings the old drove road was more formalised into a Military Road, parts of which can be seen on the maps at Taynuilt and on which the railway is bedded along Loch Awe.
This came across at the narrow sea crossing at Bonawe, and hence north via Glen Salach.
The military roads were in the main aimed at being able to get troops quickly and easily into areas of potential unrest, and the area of Jacobite Stewart Appin was certainly necessary to be able to access.
Wade Sketch map showing route across Bonawe and Shian https://maps.nls.uk/view/00001162
Describes the Bonawe road as the best Winter route to Lochaber.
The dry road from Figure 9 through Glenorchy, Bona Ferrie, and by Appin is always good, wants a little help in some places. To be viewed and considered; is but half a day about; and both the roads maybe be made good And good boats to be kept, and these two ferries that are markt officers goo? generally this road.
Caulifield Roads http://www.oldroadsofscotland.com/militaryroadscaulfeild.htm
In the 1750's the Inverary road was continued up to Dalmally to link with the Stirling to Fort William road at Tyndrum, with a branch to Bonawe. Another link was made between these two roads between Tarbert and Crianlarich.
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