Flight Information
The aircraft departed Boulder Airport (1V5), Boulder, Colorado, at 0730 on a flight to photograph the autumn aspen trees. The flight path prior to terrain impact was along rising terrain.
Wreckage Discovery
At 1400, a mountain biker on the Colorado Trail near Lake Mahan saw the wreckage of the airplane and reported it to a Colorado Division of Wildlife officer.
Terrain and Altitude
The elevation of the accident site was approximately 10,400 feet. Based on data provided by the manufacturer, it was established that at the described altitude, the aircraft was within the designed performance limit.
Evidence of Tree Contact
A branch from the top of a 60 to 75 foot tree was found downhill, 375 feet from the airplane wreckage. Two other branches from the tops of trees were found in line and between the first piece and the wreckage. A large tree, 20 inches in diameter, located 68 feet from the wreckage was sheared 30 feet above the ground.
Examination
Examination of the airplane and engine did not disclose any mechanical anomalies.