Hike Through History: How Donora’s Killer Smog Gave Birth to Cleaner Air
- Group Against Smog & Pollution
- Mar 26, 2019
- 1 min read
Updated: Feb 21, 2024

Dangerous air quality and poor weather conditions led to a killer smog to form over Donora in 1948 that claimed the lives of 27 people and sickened scores more.
In May, you’re invited to join GASP, Venture Outdoors, and the Donora Historical Society for a hike through history: Our trek will take hikers through the past, present, and future of air quality in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Most specifically, our hike will allow participants to walk in the footprint of what was once Donora’s mighty Zinc Works, a facility that was perched along the Monongahela River.
The walk will culminate in a trip to the Donora Smog Museum, where those in attendance will learn about the killer smog that choked the area during the Halloween weekend of 1948, and how the event helped inspire the clean air movement in the United States.
Space is limited, so register now!
Here’s what you need to know if you want to go:
WHEN: 10 a.m. May 18
WHERE: Donora
LEVEL OF DIFFICULTY: Easy
PRICE: $10 or $5 for Venture Outdoors members
HOW TO REGISTER: Those interested in attending may register now at the Venture Outdoors website.
*Please note that registration includes lunch and admission to the Donora Smog Museum.
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