As autumn draws to a close, winter sports enthusiasts eagerly await the moment when cold air causes the ground to crack open, creating a natural half-pipe. Prepare for a new season of sports with today's Groupon: for $48, you get a 60-minute snowboarding or skiing lesson (an $80–$160 value; prices are based on each individual's needs) at Virtual Snow Los Angeles in Santa Monica or Virtual Snow Mountain High in Wrightwood. Thought into existence by two-time world skiing king Bob Salerno, Virtual Snow's safe, controllable simulator puts students of any skill level on a carpet of faux-snow that rolls beneath the feet like baby powder. Unlike learning to ski on an avalanche, Virtual Snow introduces you to chilled sports without the risk of injury due to frostbite. All equipment (boots and a board or skis) is included with the lesson.

Reviews

NBC Los Angeles featured Virtual Snow's "slopes" on its morning program. Two Citysearchers and two Yelpers give Virtual Snow a perfect five-star rating, and customer testimonials exist:

• I was referred to them by a friend, and after going through some training sessions in doors at Virtual Snow, I was snowboarding all the way down the hill w/out falling on my first day at Mt. High! – Armen C., Yelp
• The results were remarkable. I was able to apply the drills and learning directly on the very first run. I DID NOT FALL ONCE, and was able to enjoy the day, even on intermediate runs! – Matt O'Neill, customer testimonial