Before ski lifts were invented, skiers and snowboarders reached mountaintops by either clinging to a passing helicopter’s landing skid or piggybacking on a cross-country uphill skier. Appreciate the trusty ski escalator and other winter accessories with today's Groupon: for $7, you get one ticket to the Boston Globe Ski & Snowboard Expo at the Seaport World Trade Center (up to a $12 value). The event takes place November 11–14, and this ticket is good for one of the four days.

The Boston Globe Ski & Snowboard Expo is the place for mountain-surfers to catch the latest in snowboarding and skiing technology and nab deals of up to 70% off winter sports inventory from East Coast Alpine and Eastern Boarder. Vendors from the world's most gorgeous ski resorts will be there providing lift tickets, vacation packages, and season passes at prices that have been slashed and gouged by ski poles. Browse the seemingly endless lineup of exhibitors, including mountain resorts such as Wyoming's Jackson Hole, winter baselayer clothing from WSI Sports, and lift-ticket buying service Liftopia.com. You'll also have the opportunity to meet skiing legends Glen Plake, gold medalist Hannah Kearney, and two-time gold medalist Seth Wescott.

This Groupon is a better value than the coupon on the Expo’s website for $2 off online or at the door.