PA-28 Cherokee/Archer/Dakota/Pillan/Warrior
Flight Crew Private
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 55; Flight Crew Total 135; Flight Crew Type 95
Situational Awareness
Deviation / Discrepancy - Procedural Weight And Balance; Inflight Event / Encounter Weather / Turbulence
Flight Crew Diverted; Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition
Human Factors; Weather; Aircraft
Flight was made earlier that day to ZZZ with high density altitude (8;500 feet) and similar weight. A stop was made at ZZZ for refueling; with the intent to continue on that evening to either [a nearby metropolitan] area or further west. A difference of eleven gallons of fuel (66 lbs) between the level of the tabs and full tanks drastically altered the performance of the aircraft. Even departing with a lower density altitude (8;400 feet); the aircraft refused to climb. With trees nearby; the decision to make an off-airport landing on a nearby highway was made. There was no damage done to the aircraft or any property; and there were no injuries to anyone. The local law enforcement escorted the plane back to the airport where a departure was made the next morning in favorable conditions. These events are always a chain of decisions; and a no-go decision made at any point would have prevented the situation. My decision making was influenced by the successful flight made earlier that day in similar conditions; combined with 'get there-itis'. This was definitely a lesson learned; and a mistake that I will never repeat again.
PA-28 pilot reports being unable to climb after taking off at maximum weight and a density altitude of 8;400 feet. With trees ahead the decision is made to land on an available highway; which is accomplished without damage or injury.