Incident Overview
On an unspecified date, a student pilot conducting a solo cross-country instructional flight experienced an incident after landing on a frozen lake. The aircraft sustained substantial damage upon impact with the snow and ice-covered surface.
Pilot Account
According to the pilot's statement, "While in route I made the decision to land on Pelican Lake located about 20 mi south of Rhinelander WI." The pilot described the landing sequence: "Upon main gear touching down the gear was restricted and pulled the nose of the aircraft to the ground (ice) slid about 25 yards then settled back onto main gear."
Safety Recommendation
The pilot offered a safety recommendation, stating, "This accident could have been prevented if I would have just stuck to my flight plan and [federal aviation regulations]. I realize that I made a very bad decision to land on the lake and have learned greatly from it."
Aircraft Damage
The aircraft was substantially damaged. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or other specifics were provided in the source.