Incident Summary
A private pilot reported experiencing performance difficulties shortly after takeoff from runway 35. According to the pilot, the airplane settled and would not climb, which he attributed to a downdraft. Believing he could not clear rising terrain ahead, the pilot turned the airplane into the wind. After the turn, the airplane climbed better, but the pilot still felt as if the airplane was in a downdraft.
Maneuvering and Ground Contact
After maneuvering the airplane, the pilot realized that the airplane was going to contact the ground. He then pulled the control yoke full aft in an attempt to land uphill. The airplane subsequently contacted the ground, encountered heavy brush, and nosed over, resulting in substantial damage.
Pilot Report and Conditions
The pilot did not report any pre-accident mechanical anomalies. He stated that the airplane's gross weight at takeoff was 1,989 pounds, and he noted the airplane's maximum gross takeoff weight was 2,000 pounds. The winds were reported from 320 degrees magnetic at 10 knots, gusting to 15 knots. The temperature was 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and the airport elevation was 4,217 feet above mean sea level.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the airplane. No further details on specific damage items were provided.