What happened
The pilot attempted to depart from a grass takeoff area measuring 1,800 feet in length, which was covered with approximately 1/2 inch of snow. According to the pilot, the aircraft became airborne at minimum controllable airspeed. While attempting to accelerate within ground effect, the aircraft failed to accelerate effectively.
At the end of the takeoff area, the airplane struck a fence, which sheared off the left main landing gear, and subsequently struck a tree, causing damage to the left wingtip. The flight was diverted to Challis, Idaho. During the landing in Challis, the aircraft exited the left side of the runway.
There were 3 occupants on board the aircraft, along with six duffle bags. Discrepancies were noted regarding the weight of the baggage; while the pilot reported a baggage weight of 250 pounds to an FAA investigator, the NTSB accident report listed only 100 pounds.