Tragic Loss on Mount Katahdin: Hiker Dead, Daughter Still Missing in Maine

In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 58-year-old hiker, Tim Keiderling, was found dead near the summit of Mount Katahdin in Maine on Tuesday afternoon. The search continues with urgency for his 28-year-old daughter, Esther, who remains missing. The father and daughter, hailing from Ulster Park, New York, were last seen on Sunday morning as they set out from Abol Campground to tackle the challenging ascent of Katahdin, the tallest peak in Maine at over 5,200 feet and the northern endpoint of the Appalachian Trail.

Tim's body was discovered around 2:45 p.m. on the Tableland near the summit, as confirmed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. Meanwhile, over 30 Maine Game Wardens, K-9 units, Search and Rescue teams, forest service helicopters, and even the Maine Army National Guard are combing the rugged terrain for Esther. The Hunt and Abol Trails have been closed to aid the intensive search efforts.

Tim’s brother, Joe, shared a poignant tribute, describing Tim as a vibrant soul who lived life with boundless energy and humor. 'No one has had a brother like mine,' Joe said, expressing the family’s grief and their hope for Esther’s safe return. The family is also praying for the first responders braving the harsh conditions of Katahdin, a mountain known for its grueling 8 to 12-hour round trips.

As this tragedy unfolds, it serves as a somber reminder of nature’s unforgiving power. Mount Katahdin, while a beacon for adventurers, demands respect and preparation. Our thoughts are with the Keiderling family during this agonizing wait for news of Esther.