Circumstances
The pilot flew an instrument approach to runway 36 and decided to circle to land on runway 18. The decision was based on winds slightly favoring runway 18 and the slight downhill slope on runway 36.
Approach and Landing
While on final approach to runway 18, the pilot lowered full flaps and reduced the airplane's speed to 80 miles per hour. The pilot intended to land as close to the runway threshold as possible due to concerns about braking action on the snow- and ice-covered runway. The landing gear subsequently contacted a hard snowbank approximately 30 feet before the approach end of the runway.
Damage and Aftermath
The impact caused substantial damage to the airplane's firewall. Following the impact, the airplane slid approximately 450 feet down the center of the runway before coming to rest. The pilot reported that judging the terrain was difficult because everything was snow-covered and white. The pilot did not report any problems with the operation of the airplane prior to the accident.