Narrative
After departing from an airstrip in mountainous terrain, the pilot initiated a premature turn to a northerly heading with the intention of crossing over a ridge line. Shortly after the turn, while flying up a drainage area towards rising terrain, the aircraft encountered a downdraft condition. This downdraft reduced the aircraft's climb performance, which had already been compromised by higher than usual density altitude conditions. Subsequently, while the pilot was attempting to reverse course, the aircraft collided with trees.
Environmental Conditions
The accident occurred in mountainous terrain. The aircraft's climb performance was aggravated by higher than usual density altitude conditions. Additionally, a downdraft condition was present as the aircraft flew up a drainage area towards rising terrain.
Pilot Actions
The pilot turned on course prematurely after takeoff, intending to cross a ridge line. After the downdraft reduced climb performance, the pilot attempted to reverse course, during which the collision with trees occurred.