Overview
A helicopter flight to a local ski resort was disrupted when the aircraft encountered deteriorating weather conditions. The pilot, who was accompanied by three friends, reported that he decided to cross a ridge and fly down a ravine to maintain visual reference with the terrain.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot, he was aware of power lines located in the ravine. In response, he increased the helicopter's altitude. While gaining altitude, the aircraft inadvertently entered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The pilot stated that he regained visual ground reference just before making contact with the ground and used the remaining collective pitch to reduce the helicopter's vertical velocity.
Weather Conditions
The flight encountered deteriorating weather as it approached the ridge. The pilot's decision to cross the ridge and descend into the ravine was made in an effort to preserve visual contact with the ground, but the subsequent climb to avoid power lines led to an unexpected encounter with IMC.