Circumstances
The pilot was maneuvering at low altitude in mountainous/hilly terrain to survey potential game hunting sites. During the flight, he spotted a herd of deer and executed a turn to head back toward the location where the herd was observed.
Sequence of Events
While turning, the pilot realized he was approaching terrain that was rising faster than anticipated. He responded by adding full power and attempting to maneuver away from nearby trees that he was uncertain he could clear. During this evasive maneuvering, the pilot noted that the airspeed had dropped to a range of 42 to 44 knots, which he assessed as too low. Before further corrective action could be taken, the left wing dropped and the aircraft impacted the terrain while still at full power.
Environmental Conditions
The density altitude at the accident location was approximately 7,000 feet.