NTSB Factual Report

On July 24, 2006, about 0755 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 185, N477G, sustained substantial damage during an attempted takeoff at the Minam Lodge Airstrip, Cove, Oregon. The airplane was registered to the pilot and was being operated as a visual flight rules (VFR) cross-country flight under the provisions of Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The airline transport pilot and the one passenger aboard the airplane were not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed. The pilot's planned destination was McCall, Idaho. No flight plan had been filed.

In a written statement dated September 9, the pilot reported, "About 500 ft. down the runway was a dogleg to the right. I had lined up somewhat to the left in order to mitigate the turn to the right. At approximately 40 miles an [per] hour the aircraft started drifting toward the left on the wet grass. There didn't seem to be any rudder control and there was absolutely no braking on the wet grass. I pulled off the power and I was standing on the right brake when the left wing contacted some small brush and aspen trees."

The Minam Lodge Airport (7OR0) is located in mountainous terrain in the Eagle Cap Wilderness Area. The airport elevation is 3,589 feet above sea level, and has a single turf runway. The runway is 2,000 feet long and 40 feet wide.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control during the takeoff roll. Factors include wet grass and trees.