Early Exploration Routes in Southwest Virginia

''Formal settlement of Southwest Virginia began in 1769, following the signing of the Treaty of XXXXX the previous year. Until then settlment in the area had been prohibited under the King's Proclamation of 1763. Nonetheless, exploration of the area did take (as well as some settlement) prior to that date. The principal exloration routes are shown on the accompanying map based on Summers, 1929. Routes shown include


 * Dr. Thomas Walker's Route of 1749 leading from the Virginia Highlands
 * Clayton Gists Route of 1751
 * The Hunters Path used by Long Hunters through out the period
 * Boone's Road of 1775 aka The Wilderness Road

''Boone's Road of 1775 is included in this list because of its historical importance. Even though it post-dates the opening it became arguably the most significant migration route for settlers seeking lands in Kentucky. Boone's Road extended from Mocassin Gap in the east to the Cumberland Gap and beyond in the west. The exact route utilized portions of The Hunters Path and Dr. Thomas Walker's Route of 1749.