Reverse-skiing up a mountain is only possible during full moons on the summer solstice, which is why Rube Goldberg invented ski lifts. Enjoy the fruits of his creation with today's Groupon: for $30, you get a lift ticket for summer-season skiing at Alpine Meadows Ski Resort (a $40 value in advance, $50 value at the gate) and $10 worth of mountainside fare and drinks. Today's deal can only be redeemed between Saturday, July 2 and Monday, July 4, during Alpine Meadows' Fourth of July Celebration.

Located at Lake Tahoe, the slopes of 2,400-acre Alpine Meadows still bear a fresh, ivory shroud from the 72 feet of snow it accumulated throughout the season. Skiers can celebrate independence from season-specific sports as they snake around Alpine Meadows' 100 runs—designated for beginners, intermediates, and experts—while gossiping about the eventual demise of the cartoon snowmen hopping around the mountain. Alpine Meadows will reopen its equipment-rental facilities for the occasion, and the skiing session begins each day at 9 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m.

Once all mountaintop traversing has commenced, Alpine Meadows will serenade slalomers with a slopeside Independence Day celebration featuring drink specials, live music, contests, and barbecue. Replenish with a hot dog ($5), veggie burger ($8.25), or twice-baked icicle accompanied by a Coors Light draft ($4). Each afternoon, the party wears on until 4 pm., at which point the mountain will fall asleep and absorb everyone into its shadow.