This was done by snow.

Given the slightest list from the perpendicular when the heavy, wet snow falls upon it, it is bound slowly to be forced over.

If it is a tough, strong tree it may sustain the weight until melting time comes, when it is released.

But it never becomes upright again.

On the other hand if a cold snap comes after the snow has bent it over, it is no uncommon thing for it to snap right in two, eight, ten or more feet from the ground.
Now we stand on the summit.