Maneuver Description
The pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane was on a personal cross-country flight to a remote, off-airport site. To evaluate the suitability of the selected landing area, the pilot performed a maneuver commonly referred to as "dragging the runway." During this maneuver, the pilot made a low pass with the intention of briefly contacting the snow with the landing gear while keeping the airplane's weight off the wheels.
Accident Sequence
As the main landing gear wheels touched down on top of a frozen layer of crusty snow, the wheels broke through the surface. The airplane subsequently nosed over.
Damage Assessment
The accident resulted in substantial damage to the left wing and vertical stabilizer.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.