Since the invention of inflation, prices for groceries have skyrocketed and rivers have become traversable. Enjoy the scenic side of economics with today's Groupon: for $60, you get a 2.5-hour whitewater-rafting trip for two from McKenzie River Adventures (a $125 value). Trips depart at noon, 2 p.m., and 4 p.m. from the Paradise Campground, located just off SR-126, 40 miles east of Eugene.

McKenzie River Adventures’ half-day trips let kids, families, and first-time paddlers navigate the scenic twists and turns of the crystal-blue Upper McKenzie River under the direction of experienced guides. Seated in a durable six- or eight-passenger craft, rafters negotiate a total of 28 rapids during a breathtaking 7-mile journey through the Willamette National Forest. Suitable for children as young as 4, all trips include safety and paddling instruction from the guides, who are trained in river-rescue techniques such as CPR and melting hard-hearted cynics with pictures of baby otters. McKenzie River Adventures supplies rafters with life jackets and other rafting equipment, though prospective adventurers should check the site to ensure river-readiness.