Incident Overview
A pilot and his roommate were flying a rented aircraft when the pilot maneuvered through a valley, reversed course, and descended over an assembly of persons. While buzzing the group, the aircraft collided with trees, sustaining substantial damage. Despite the impact, the pilot was able to fly the aircraft back to the departure airport without further mishap.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported that gusty wind conditions existed during the flight and that he knowingly flew in the valley below the level of the mountain tops. He stated that the turn made to reverse course was "too tight" and that he did not immediately take corrective action to regain altitude until after colliding with the trees.
Passenger's Account
The passenger indicated that in the vicinity of the accident site, he "likely knew some of the persons on the ground."
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft sustained substantial damage from the collision with trees but remained flyable.