What happened
A commercial certificated pilot attempted a takeoff from snow-covered terrain in a wheel/ski-equipped airplane. At the time of departure, the surface of the snow had developed a crusty texture.
The pilot initiated a takeoff run directed toward the south. The aircraft failed to become airborne until it was approximately 50 yards from a group of trees. During the initial climb phase, the left horizontal stabilizer struck a spruce tree at an altitude of about 25 feet. Following this impact, the airplane entered a descending left turn toward the ground. While the pilot attempted an emergency landing, the aircraft collided with several additional trees.
The accident resulted in no fatalities, though the aircraft sustained significant damage to the wings, the left stabilizer, and the left main landing gear.