Incident Overview
Two aircraft departed in trail, intending to follow a river through mountainous terrain to climb above the ridge line. The first aircraft proceeded as planned along the river and turned toward the destination at a safe altitude. Approximately one-quarter mile behind, the second aircraft radioed the first that they were turning up a different canyon.
Sequence of Events
The second aircraft was unable to climb rapidly enough to clear the rising terrain. While attempting to turn back, the aircraft stalled. The elevation at the departure point was 4,701 feet, and the accident site was at 6,200 feet.
Occupant and Damage Information
All four occupants were rated pilots. A post-crash fire consumed most of the wreckage.
Conclusion
The accident involved a stall during a turning maneuver in mountainous terrain after the aircraft deviated from the planned route into a different canyon.