Departure and Climb
The pilot departed from Glenwood Springs County Airport and initiated a cruise climb with the intention of flying over a mountain pass that rises to an elevation of 12,093 feet. The pass is described as narrow.
Encounter with Downdrafts
The pilot entered the narrow pass at an altitude lower than the summit. While inside the pass, the aircraft encountered downdraft wind currents. The pilot was unable to climb the aircraft fast enough to clear the rapidly rising terrain.
Attempted Turn and Stall Warning
Facing rising terrain, the pilot attempted a 60-degree bank turn to reverse course. During this maneuver, the aircraft's stall warning activated. The pilot then aborted the turn.
Forced Landing
Following the aborted turn, the pilot executed a forced landing in mountainous terrain. No further details about the outcome of the landing are provided in the source.