Cessna 172 N52700 accident near Stanley, Idaho

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.

NTSB analysis

The pilot reported that, while climbing at 500 ft per minute, over mountainous terrain, he made a right turn into the wrong canyon from the flight the day before. Realizing his mistake, and unable to make a course reversal, the terrain was rising faster than the airplane could climb. He attempted a left-hand turn to try for lower terrain, however the airplane stalled and entered a spin. The pilot regained control and put the airplane in level flight just before colliding with trees. Both wings were substantially damaged. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR20LA330 for the full record.