Evil Lumberjacks Lurk in Markoff's Haunted Forest
WASHINGTON, D.C., Oct. 11, 2010— -- Witches, zombies and evil lumberjacks roam the dark, ornament-lit grounds of Markoff's Haunted Forest, with the fright-lovers not too far behind.
"Some nights we see from 5 to 6,000 people come through," co-owner Matt Markoff said of what's billed as the oldest and most original haunted attraction in Maryland.
Awaiting your fate on one of two carefully constructed haunted trails, you can try your luck at any of the ghastly activities on the main grounds. Take a ride on the zip-line, climb the pole and jump the "Leap of Death," test your aim throwing axes like a lumberjack, or feel the rickety bumps on a haunted hay ride through the shadowy farm.
The three Markoff brothers began the 18-year-old attraction as a haunted bus, traveling from high school football games to senior homes across Maryland. It has since grown into a nationally ranked attraction on the Calleva Farm in Dickerson, Md., where they grow their own food and wood and even make some of their own gas. The proceeds support an outdoor camp for children on the farm.
