Incident Overview
A pilot reported an accident that occurred during a cross-country flight over mountainous terrain. According to the pilot's account, he noticed a bear near the entrance to a mountain pass and began orbiting over the animal. While circling, a strong downdraft emanating from the pass entrance forced the airplane to descend toward the saddle of the pass.
Pilot Actions
The pilot stated that he applied full engine power in an attempt to arrest the descent. However, the airplane's main landing gear wheels ultimately touched down in an area covered with grass. Immediately after touchdown, the left main wheel struck a large rock, causing the left wing to contact the ground.
Damage Assessment
The collision resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and fuselage. The pilot reported no mechanical anomalies that would have precluded normal operations prior to the event.
Environmental Conditions
Shortly after the accident, the pilot estimated the surface wind to be from 090 to 140 degrees at 10 knots, with gusts between 15 and 20 knots. The pilot's observations were based on his assessment of conditions at the accident site.