Flight Details
The pilot and two passengers were en route on a VFR cross-country flight to Scottsbluff, Nebraska. Near Grand Junction, Colorado, the flight encountered instrument meteorological conditions (IMC). The pilot contacted air traffic control (ATC) and received an IFR clearance. Subsequently, the pilot elected to land at Cheyenne, Wyoming.
Weather Conditions
At Cheyenne, the reported weather included an 500-foot overcast ceiling, visibility of one-quarter mile, tower visibility of one mile, light rain, light snow, and fog.
Approach and Emergency Landing
During the descent to the initial approach fix (IAF), the aircraft accumulated heavy ice. The pilot requested vectors to the final approach fix (FAF), but ATC denied the request because radar was not available at Cheyenne. With full power applied, the aircraft descended below the glideslope. The pilot reported that the aircraft suddenly began to climb, prompting execution of a missed approach. The aircraft then began to stall and lose altitude. The pilot performed an emergency off-airport forced landing.