Amazin’ Mazes is finding that the business of building and operating giant human mazes can be recession proof. “People just can’t tell their kids �?No,’ especially when it’s good exercise and you get to do it with them,” said Greg Gallavan, who owns the Fraser, Colo.,-based company. Business has never been better for this maze designer and operator. During 2010, Gallavan has set a new building record in the company’s 20-year history. Most mazes only require one employee, creating low operating costs, and generate impressive profit margins.

New mazes include: Trailblazer Maze in Kearney, Neb.; Miner’s Ark Maze in Rapid City, Iowa; a Noah’s Ark Maze at Gagetown, Mo.; and the Treasure Trap Maze at Wonder Mountain, Maine. While new mazes take about six or eight weeks of pre-planning and preparation, the attractions can be constructed in about 10 days, and fit in especially well at amusement parks, ski resorts and miniature golf courses.