After reporting level at 7,000 ft in rain, the pilot reported that altitude could not be maintained due to a power loss. He stated that '...we're down to about fourteen inches and we just broke out and I got the lights.' At 1849, after a discussion with ATC concerning airports available, the pilot reported a complete power loss at 4,000 ft. He stated he would '...go for Henderson' and indicated that he was in the clouds. The aircraft impacted a heavily wooded hillside about 4.5 mi SE and on the extended centerline of RWY 16 of Asheville Regional Airport. The temp/dew point at Asheville was 49/49. The forecasted temp at 6,000 ft & 9,000 ft was +39 deg & +32 deg respectively. Two other pilots flying in the area reported icing at 8,000 ft & 9,000 ft. The carburetor heat door was found jammed in the cold (off) position. The carb heat knob was in the cold (off) position.