What happened
The pilot was attempting to land on an airstrip situated at a location with a reported density altitude of 9,000 feet. During the landing phase, the decision was made to execute a go-around. However, the aircraft was unable to achieve a climb rate sufficient to clear the rising terrain in the area. This inability to outclimb the topography resulted in the aircraft stalling while departing and impacting trees.
The investigation
Following the collision with the trees, a post-impact fire occurred which completely destroyed the aircraft. The pilot reported having little experience with back country flying operations, suggesting that the high density altitude conditions may have exceeded the performance capabilities of the aircraft or the proficiency of the pilot in such environments.
Findings
The primary factors contributing to this accident were the high density altitude and the rising terrain. These conditions prevented the aircraft from gaining adequate altitude during the go-around maneuver. The lack of experience in back country flying by the pilot was also noted as a relevant factor in the outcome.