The pilot reported that, while climbing at 500 feet per minute over mountainous terrain near Stanley, Idaho, he made a right turn into the wrong canyon.
Realizing his mistake, and unable to make a course reversal, the terrain was rising faster than the Cessna 172 could climb.
He attempted a left-hand turn to try for lower terrain, however the airplane stalled and entered a spin.
He regained control and put the airplane in level flight just before hitting trees.
Both wings were substantially damaged. The pilot and his passenger sustained minor injuries.
The pilot reported that there were no pre-accident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane or engine that would have precluded normal operation.
Probable Cause: The pilot’s failure to maintain terrain clearance after flying into the wrong canyon in mountainous terrain, which resulted in a collision with trees and terrain.
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This September 2020 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
