Accident Details
A pilot reported an accident while attempting to land after flying northbound in a canyon. The pilot intended to land to the south on runway 17. During the approach, the pilot stated that while on the left downwind leg at 5,800 feet, he turned "one ridge too soon, which put me a little high." His airspeed was 70 miles per hour (mph) at that point, but as he descended, the airspeed increased to 90 mph.
Pilot's Account
The pilot noted that the airspeed was fast but believed he still had sufficient runway. He decided to land and, upon flaring, the airplane floated. Although the airspeed was bleeding off, he attempted to force the landing. After touchdown, the airplane began to porpoise. On the second bounce, the nose wheel touched down first; the pilot was uncertain whether it would be worse to take off with a damaged nose wheel or to continue trying to land. On the third touchdown, the pilot flew the airplane straight down the runway until it came to a stop on the right side of the runway.
Damage and Recommendations
The airplane sustained structural damage to the firewall. The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine. In the section titled "RECOMMENDATION (How could this accident have been prevented)" of the pilot's written report (NTSB Pilot/Operator Report, Form 6120.1), the pilot stated that he should have flown with a pilot familiar with the area and should have taken a course in mountain flying. The pilot also reported that when he knew he was high, he should have gone around and set up for a better approach.