What happened
A pilot flying toward a remote river found the intended flight path obscured by clouds over nearby mountain tops. Due to these conditions, the pilot decided to land on a gravel bar situated along the river, which measured approximately 800 feet in length and 100 feet in width.
The pilot performed three low passes over the gravel bar before initiating a landing approach. While abeam the landing threshold, the pilot applied carburetor heat. During the descent, the pilot observed that the gravel bar contained larger rocks than preferred. In response, the pilot attempted a go-around by applying full engine power approximately 30 feet above the ground.
During this maneuver, the engine sputtered, causing the aircraft to settle onto the gravel. Upon touchdown, the engine returned to full power and the aircraft lifted off; however, the aircraft subsequently collided with willow bushes and nosed over. The pilot reported experiencing continuous carburetor icing throughout the flight, necessitating the application of carburetor heat every few minutes.
There were no injuries reported in the accident.