Father Tim Keiderling, 58, and his daughter Esther, 28, were found dead on Mount Katahdin in Maine after a Sunday hike turned tragic amid dangerous, freezing weather. Their disappearance raised alarm among family members and the hiking community, leading to a massive search operation that spanned several days and involved multiple agencies.
The pair from Ulster Park, New York, were last seen at around 10:15 a.m. on Sunday as they set out from Abol Campground, planning a day hike to the summit of Maine’s tallest peak. Their vehicle was discovered on Monday at the trailhead, confirming that they had not returned as expected. Severe weather conditions—freezing rain, dense fog, and snow—made the trek treacherous and likely played a significant role in their fatal outcome.
Tim’s body was located Tuesday morning in the Tablelands area by Maine Game Warden Chad Robertson and his K9 partner, Strom. Esther’s remains were found on Wednesday around 1:00 p.m. in a wooded spot between two trails. The relentless winter weather slowed the search that involved 25 Game Wardens, four specialized K9 teams, and 21 Baxter State Park Rangers on the ground. Aerial support came from Maine Forest Service and Maine Army Guard helicopters, with the National Guard deploying a Lakota helicopter equipped with thermal imaging technology for night operations. All these efforts show the commitment of rescuers braving harsh conditions—even if the scene wasn’t ideal for a snowball fight.
The investigation noted that the weather’s rapid change turned an ordinary hike into a dangerous adventure. The Tableland area and nearby trails were closed temporarily during the recovery operations to ensure the safety of both searchers and visitors. Despite the shock of the incident, no permanent closures or new safety policies have been announced by park officials.
Family members remember Tim with deep affection and fond memories. As his brother Joe stated, “No one has had a brother like mine. Tim lived exuberantly. He loved life, loved people, and loved God. He was a storyteller like no one I’ve known with a rich sense of humor.” Baxter State Park officials also expressed heartfelt condolences for the family and grieved the loss. In one statement they said, “We understand that many of our social media followers share in our profound sadness for the family and friends of Tim and Esther Keiderling. We appreciate your support for their loved ones and the members of the search teams during this incredibly difficult time,” reflecting the collective sorrow following this heart-breaking event.