What happened
The pilot was attempting to perform a takeoff from a location near Fairbanks, Alaska, with the intention of returning to the airport. The taxi maneuver required traveling uphill for a distance of 1,500 feet. During this taxi phase, the pilot utilized carburetor heat.
Upon turning the aircraft around to line up for the takeoff roll, the pilot observed fine snow and ice crystals suspended in the air over the intended takeoff area. At this time, the pilot turned the carburetor heat off and applied full power to begin the takeoff.
As the aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 15 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot subsequently applied carburetor heat, which restored some engine power. To maintain sufficient airspeed following the power loss, the pilot had to lower the nose, which resulted in the airplane crashing into trees. The pilot indicated that the intake screen may have become iced over during the taxi and takeoff sequence.