Accident Details
The pilot of an airplane contacted a nearby FAA flight service station (FSS) to inquire about the condition of the snow-covered, unattended gravel airstrip he intended to land on. He asked if any airplanes had taken off or landed there that day. The FSS specialist confirmed that airplanes had landed there earlier in the day but could not provide information about the runway condition.
Pilot's Account
Before landing, the pilot overflew the airstrip at approximately 500 feet above the ground. The surface appeared to him to be hard packed and showed signs of recent use. However, during the landing roll, the airplane's tires encountered soft slush. The airplane nosed over, and the right wing lift-strut collapsed. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical problems with the airplane.
Airstrip Usage
The pilot reported that he was unaware that the airstrip was used primarily by ski-equipped airplanes during the winter months.