Augusta, Maine – According to the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (MDIFW), a critical search operation is underway for two missing hikers in Baxter State Park, as reported in their most recent press release. This incident underscores the inherent risks of outdoor adventures in Maine’s rugged terrain and the importance of preparedness when exploring the state’s vast wilderness areas. The MDIFW, in collaboration with Baxter State Park Rangers, is leading efforts to locate Tim Keiderling, 58, and his daughter Esther Keiderling, 28, both from Ulster Park, New York. The hikers were last seen on June 1, 2025, heading towards the summit of Katahdin from Abol Campground, prompting an urgent response from authorities.
The search began on the morning of June 2, 2025, after park rangers noticed the Keiderlings’ vehicle remained in the day-use parking lot, signaling they had not returned as expected. Rangers have focused their efforts on the Abol Trail and the Hunt Trail, key routes leading to Katahdin’s summit, which is Maine’s highest peak at 5,267 feet. The challenging terrain, coupled with unpredictable weather conditions in early summer, can pose significant hazards to even experienced hikers. Baxter State Park, a 209,644-acre wilderness area, is known for its remote trails and demanding hikes, making search operations complex and resource-intensive. The urgency of this mission highlights the critical role of state agencies like MDIFW in ensuring public safety in Maine’s outdoors.
Baxter State Park Rangers, supported by the MDIFW, have mobilized extensive resources to cover the vast area surrounding Katahdin. The operation involves ground teams meticulously combing the trails and a broader aerial search to scan the Tablelands, where the hikers were last spotted around 10:15 a.m. on June 1. The collaborative effort demonstrates the commitment of Maine’s wildlife and park management agencies to protect both the natural environment and the people who venture into it. This incident also serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety protocols, such as informing others of hiking plans, carrying adequate supplies, and being aware of weather forecasts before embarking on such journeys.
The MDIFW emphasizes that Katahdin, while a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, requires careful preparation due to its steep ascents, rocky terrain, and potential for sudden weather changes. Each year, thousands of hikers are drawn to Baxter State Park for its unparalleled views and challenging trails, but incidents like this underscore the need for vigilance. According to park data, Katahdin sees over 30,000 hikers annually, with a small but notable percentage requiring assistance due to injuries, disorientation, or adverse conditions. This statistic highlights the importance of sustainability in managing visitor access to preserve both human safety and the park’s delicate habitat.
As an example of the challenges faced in such environments, past search efforts in Baxter State Park have often involved navigating dense forests and high-altitude zones where visibility can be limited. In this case, the focus on the Katahdin Tablelands—a broad, exposed plateau near the summit—presents unique difficulties due to its open terrain and potential for hikers to become disoriented. The MDIFW and park rangers are urging anyone with information about the Keiderlings’ whereabouts to come forward, as every detail could be crucial in ensuring their safe return.
This ongoing search also brings attention to broader issues of biodiversity and land management in Maine’s wilderness areas. Baxter State Park is not only a recreational hub but also a critical sanctuary for native species, requiring a balance between public access and conservation. The MDIFW plays a pivotal role in maintaining this balance, ensuring that search and rescue operations minimize disruption to the natural ecosystem while prioritizing human life. The agency’s dual mission of protecting hunting and fishing resources alongside promoting safe outdoor recreation is evident in their response to this crisis.
As the search continues, the thoughts of Maine’s outdoor community are with the Keiderling family and the dedicated teams working to bring them home. This event serves as a poignant reminder of the power and unpredictability of nature, urging all who explore Maine’s trails to respect the land and prepare accordingly. For more information, visit Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.