Markoff’s Haunted Forest, a long-running Halloween attraction in Dickerson, recently completed its 33rd season of delivering scares and thrills in Montgomery County. The popular haunted experience has now been ranked #1 in the world by The Scare Factor, a leading industry reviewer of haunted attractions.
According to The Scare Factor, which has reviewed top haunted houses and Halloween attractions for more than five years, Markoff’s Haunted Forest received the highest overall score across all categories. Reviewers praised the attraction’s creativity, craftsmanship, and attention to detail, noting that “every part of this haunted attraction is handmade and impressively elaborate.”
The review highlights the attraction’s origins in 1992, when the Markoff family began with a haunted school bus event that evolved into today’s large-scale production featuring two main experiences, The Forest and The Town. Visitors can choose between the two trails or enjoy both, while others can stay in the lively midway area filled with activities, food, and entertainment. The Scare Factor described the midway as “a bustling small village packed with activities for all ages,” encouraging visitors to plan for an extended experience.
Over the years, Markoff’s Haunted Forest has become a seasonal tradition for thrill-seekers across the region, known for its eerie woodland setting, handmade sets, and signature mix of suspense and theatrical performance.
In response to the recognition, Markoff’s Haunted Forest shared a statement:
“Markoff’s Haunted Forest is beyond honored to receive this incredible recognition. This achievement belongs to our phenomenal community of performers, artists, designers, builders, and trainers who bring the terror to life night after night. Thank you for helping us create a truly unforgettable season. Here’s to the screams that made it all possible.”
Markoff’s Haunted Forest is expected to return in fall 2026 with new themes and attractions, continuing its legacy as one of the nation’s most celebrated haunted experiences.
