The Donner Pass Tragedy
Did the Hastings Cutoff Lead the Donner Party to Disaster?
4.5 (25)
204 mins
In 1846, families traveling to California chose the risky Hastings Cutoff, which delayed their journey and trapped the Donner Party in the Sierra Nevada. Facing starvation and desperate survival, only some were rescued in 1847.
Ep 1:
Frozen Flesh Secrets
After being banished from the Donner Party, James F. Reed reached California and began organizing rescue efforts. Early search parties eventually discovered the group trapped in the Sierra Nevada, forced to resort to cannibalism.
Ep 2:
Hastings Cutoff Trap
In 1846, several families left Missouri for California seeking opportunity and a better life. Influenced by promises of a shortcut called the Hastings Cutoff, the group chose the risky route, unknowingly setting the stage for a tragic journey.
Ep 3:
Salt Desert Devastation
The Hastings Cutoff proved far more difficult than promised. After conflicts, deaths, and Reed’s banishment, the weakened group reached the Sierra Nevada just as winter approached.
Ep 4:
Desperate Cannibal Choices
Rescue parties eventually saved some survivors in 1847, but the tragedy left lasting trauma and became one of the most infamous survival stories in American history.
Discussions (7)
Demetrius
Level 7 · 7 mo agoThe Harlan Young party crossing Oct 8 shows the route was viable on paper. The Donners just had poor clock management and couldn't grind out the miles.
Josiah
Level 5 · 7 mo agoReed getting banished basically saved his life lol
Ross
Level 8 · 7 mo agoHastings reminds me of every bad boss I've had. Promising results he hasn't tested while everyone else suffers. Just absolute garbage behavior. JFC.
