Primary finding
Probable cause
The pilot’s selection of unsuitable terrain for taxi which resulted in an impact with trees.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The pilot of the ski-equipped airplane reported that while taxiing for takeoff through a narrow tree lined area on sloping hard crusted snow-covered terrain, the airplane began to slide down slope. Unable to arrest the descent, the airplane impacted trees which resulted in substantial damage to the right lift strut. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.