Accident Narrative
A pilot was taking off from a gravel bar in a tailwheel-equipped airplane loaded with light, bulky cargo items. The gravel bar was situated in a valley surrounded by mountainous terrain. According to the pilot, wind indicators along the strip were consistent with the takeoff direction, which matched the direction used for landing earlier. The takeoff roll proceeded normally, but upon rotation, the airplane encountered what the pilot described as "a gust from behind or above." Subsequently, the airplane settled back to the surface and struck brush near the end of the strip, then turned and came to a stop across a small ditch.
Damage
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right wing and the aft section of the fuselage.
Pilot Report
The pilot stated that no preaccident mechanical anomalies existed with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation. Immediately after the accident, the pilot observed that the wind became very gusty, reaching about 20 mph, but returned to light and variable conditions within less than an hour.