Flight Details
A pilot on a local flight elected to enter the mouth of Peter's Creek Valley to view a friend's cabin. After flying over the cabin at approximately 1500 ft MSL, the pilot reported initiating a 180-degree turn with full power application. The engine did not respond in any way.
Response to Power Loss
Anticipating carburetor ice, the pilot applied carburetor heat but noted no change in power. He then chose to exchange altitude for airspeed to attempt another 180-degree turn out of the valley. Power consistently decreased, and the area safe for a turn diminished.
Forced Landing
The pilot selected the best available landing area, a fairly flat knoll on the valley side. During touchdown, the airplane impacted in a nose-high attitude at an elevation of about 2000 ft.
Investigation Findings
No preimpact malfunction or failure was identified. The temperature and dew point were 45°F and 35°F, respectively. Icing probability charts indicated that serious carburetor icing could occur at or below cruise power.