Incident Overview
A pilot flying a tailwheel-equipped airplane experienced a loss of directional control during landing at a mountain dirt airstrip, resulting in the aircraft departing the runway and coming to rest in a creek. The pilot had completed a previous departure from a similar airstrip earlier that day.
Approach and Landing Sequence
The pilot reported flying a stabilized approach on downwind, base, and final legs, with wind conditions estimated at 7 to 10 knots. As the landing flare was initiated, the wind shifted to a right crosswind, causing the right wing to lift. The pilot was unable to maintain the airplane on the runway centerline, and the aircraft departed the airstrip, descending down an embankment into an adjacent creek.
Damage Assessment
The airplane came to rest nose down in the creek bed. Inspection revealed substantial damage to the firewall and forward fuselage structure.
Mechanical Status
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.