What happened
During an attempt to perform a course reversal, a Cessna (type not specified) collided with mountainous terrain inside a box canyon. According to statements provided by both the certified flight instructor and the student pilot, the aircraft approached a mountain ridgeline with an elevation of 3,400 feet while maintaining a cruising altitude of 3,000 feet mean sea level.
In an effort to maintain maximum altitude relative to the ground, the crew flew up the center of a box canyon that led toward the ridge. The flight instructor initiated a climb to 3,500 feet; however, upon realizing the aircraft would not clear the ridgeline, the instructor executed a left turn and intentionally stalled the airplane. This maneuver was performed in an attempt to achieve a survivable landing on the mountain slope.
The investigation
An examination of the engine and airframe was conducted following the accident. The inspection revealed no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures.