What happened
While operating through mountainous terrain, a solo private pilot encountered weather conditions consisting of low ceilings, reduced visibility, and light freezing rain. Upon noticing a light accumulation of rime ice on the leading edge of the aircraft wings, the pilot decided to divert to a remote, unmaintained airstrip to wait for improved weather.
During the landing sequence, the main wheels of the aircraft contacted deep snow on the runway surface. This caused the aircraft to nose over. The pilot was not injured in the event.
The investigation
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wings, both wing lift struts, and the rudder assembly. Prior to the accident, the pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies with the aircraft.