Incident Overview
According to the pilot's statement, the flight departed from Arapahoe with the objective of selecting the best mountain pass based on the altitude achieved. While at 10,500 feet, the pilot determined that the pass being entered would be too difficult and began maneuvering for a 180-degree turn.
Downdraft Encounter
During the turn, a severe downdraft occurred, resulting in a loss of altitude and airspeed. The pilot noted that this loss precluded a safe 180-degree turn, as trees posed a potential obstacle during the last half of the turn.
Decision and Crash
The pilot decided to aim for a clear, paved area but found that insufficient altitude would not permit a 90-degree turn to land. The aircraft subsequently crashed on a concrete-covered clearing.