In a massive search effort, federal rescue resources have been deployed for a missing New York woman.
The operation was launched after her father’s body was discovered on Maine’s most dangerous mountain.
The tragedy unfolded on Mount Katahdin, highlighting the perils of America’s wilderness areas, even for experienced hikers facing unpredictable conditions.
The body of 58-year-old Tim Keiderling from Ulster Park, New York, was located by a K9 team near the summit of Mount Katahdin.
His 28-year-old daughter, Esther Keiderling, remains missing as an extensive search operation continues across the treacherous terrain.
The father-daughter pair set out on what should have been a challenging but manageable day hike to Maine’s highest peak.
They were last spotted around 10:15 a.m. on the Katahdin Tablelands, but failed to return as expected.
Their vehicle was discovered in the day-use parking lot, triggering immediate concern from park officials.
Over 30 game wardens have been deployed alongside specialized K9 teams and multiple aircraft in the search for Esther.
The Maine Forest Service has contributed three helicopters. At the same time, the Maine Army National Guard has provided a Blackhawk helicopter equipped with infrared imaging technology to scan remote areas that ground teams cannot easily reach.
A large search operation is underway in Baxter State Park for Tim Keiderling, 58, and his daughter Esther Keiderling, 28, both of Ulster Park, New York. The two left a campground to summit Mt. Katahdin 2 days ago, and have not been seen or heard from since. @WGME @FOX23Maine pic.twitter.com/iRos3z9ATm
— WGME Photojournalist 🎥📡 (@MENewsPhotog) June 3, 2025
Baxter State Park has closed both the Hunt and Abol Trails to facilitate the search efforts.
Known for their challenging terrain, these trails have now become the focus of a rescue operation that grows more urgent with each passing hour as officials battle against time and weather conditions.
“We know that many of our social media followers share in our deep sadness for the family and friends of Tim Keiderling, and appreciate your support as teams continue the search for Esther,” officials stated in their announcement of the tragic development.
Standing at 5,269 feet, Mount Katahdin is described by park officials as “a very strenuous climb, no matter which trailhead you choose.”
The mountain is notorious among hikers for its difficulty and unpredictable weather patterns.
Weekend conditions included temperatures in the 50s with sporadic rain and wind, creating potentially hazardous hiking conditions.
The typical round-trip journey on Katahdin takes between eight and twelve hours, making it a formidable challenge even for experienced hikers.
Authorities have not released information about the Keiderlings’ experience level or what emergency supplies they may have carried.
Officials are requesting that anyone who was near the summit of Katahdin contact Houlton State Police at 207-532-5400 with any information that might assist in locating Esther Keiderling.
Even the smallest detail could prove crucial in the ongoing search efforts.
