Incident Overview
According to the pilot, a passenger persuaded him to fly up a canyon that appeared to be a pass at the time of entry. Once inside the canyon, the pilot determined there was insufficient space to execute a 180-degree turn. He then applied full power and attempted to climb straight ahead.
Sequence of Events
The aircraft reached an altitude of approximately 2,800 feet above mean sea level (MSL) when its floats made contact with the ground. The airplane slid for about 15 feet before nosing over.
Aircraft and Location
The type of aircraft, its registration, and the specific location of the incident were not provided in the source. The aircraft was equipped with floats. There was no mention of other occupants, injuries, or damage beyond the described ground contact and nosing over.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that the passenger initiated the decision to enter the canyon, which he believed to be a pass. The pilot's actions after realizing the confinement included applying full power and attempting a straight-ahead climb, but the terrain prevented a successful escape.