Ice is nothing more than water that won't let people swim in it. Such stubbornness deserves comeuppance in the form of sharp metallic blades that merrily crisscross to and fro across the frozen surface. Be the instrument of justice with today's Groupon: for $7, you get two all-day ice-skating passes, skate rental, and two hot chocolates at Echo Valley (a $14 value).

Echo Valley's 4,300-square-foot outdoor skating rink provides neophyte gliders and grizzled ice lords alike with a place to practice their art. The rink is regularly groomed and surfaced by Echo's friendly staff, who carefully scrape away rough ice and remove unseen tripwires left by vengeful snow goblins, making it the perfect place for a snowy date or platonic, subfreezing outing. Though old skating hands and those whose feet naturally sprout metal blades are invited to use their own equipment, skate rental is included in the price of today's deal. A large observation deck allows visitors to watch loved ones on the rink, as well as observe those engaged in the park's other winter-centric sports, such as snow tubing and tobogganing.

Those who are plumb skated out may retire to the rustic lodge and warm themselves around the large circular gas hearth. Calories lost to cold and exertion can be replaced with two of Echo's wonderful hot chocolates (included in the Groupon), or with a selection of chewable fare from the menu, such as pizza slices and hot dogs (each $2). Skating at Echo Valley is available every weekend through the end of February.

Because the rink is outdoors, the offer is weather permitting. Call ahead to check rink conditions.