As most college students are broke this summer, it is difficult to find something to do that does not involve money. Sadly, even admission to the beach costs at least $10 in most places along the Jersey Shore. An equally fulfilling alternative, hiking, allows for one to enjoy nature at a free cost. If you are looking for something fun to do this summer and are looking to take quality photos for your Instagram, you should check out these New Jersey hiking spots.

1. Appalachian Trail- Vernon, New Jersey

This trail, which is part of the Appalachian Mountains, includes a boardwalk which is considered the easy part of the trail. The boardwalk passes through some woods, as well as an old railroad track. The difficult trail, on the other side of the parking lot, is known as Stairway to Heaven, for obvious reasons. This trail involves climbing over steep rocks, and takes about an hour to climb to the top, as it is approximately 2.5 miles to the top. However, there are promising views at the top, which makes the hike to the top worth the while.

2. Ramapo Valley County Reservation- Mahwah, New Jersey

Ramapo Reservation is the most common go-to hiking spot for most inhabitants of Bergen County. An easier trail to hike on will take you to the upper lake, where most hikers take their dogs or even go swimming, although it is technically not allowed. A more difficult trail will take you to the top of the mountain. It is possible for one to encounter snakes, as well as lizards and frogs near the rocks throughout the trails. If you are visiting on the weekend, make sure to come early to ensure a parking spot.

3. Garret Mountain Reservation- Woodland Park, New Jersey

A 568-acre park, Garret Mountain is a beautiful place to go to for the day. It is a high school cross country course, where runners complete a 5K around the woods, as well as uphill for a half mile at the end of the course. It is not only a great place to run, but also to hike, as there is a scenic lake in the middle of the woods. Additionally, there are incredible panoramic views of New York City.

4. Ramapo Mountain State Forest- Pompton Lakes, New Jersey

Being that it is over 4,000 acres, the Ramapo Mountain State Forest has several entrances, many being on Skyline Drive in Ringwood. It is located in both Bergen and Passaic counties. If you enter the trail from Pompton Lakes, it is initially an easy stroll through the woods and gradually becomes more difficult. In the beginning of this trail, you will encounter stunning views of the Ramapo Lake. One can also expect to encounter deer, foxes, and hawks throughout the trail. There are several points where it is mostly uphill. There is a bridge that goes over I-287 and connects to another part of the forest.

5. Mountainside Park- Pequannock, New Jersey

Mountainside Park in Pequannock is a fairly difficult hike, as it is mostly uphill. The total park contains 6 miles of trails. On the other side of the mountain is I-287 and in the distance, views of the New York City skyline can be seen. On the way down, rocks are out of place can be an issue. This hiking trail is best used from April to December, although it is the prettiest in the fall.

6. Wildcat Ridge Hawkwatch- Rockaway, New Jersey

The Wildcat Ridge Wildlife Management Area's trails allow one to learn about the history of the surrounding area. In the beginning of one trail is an old mine, which is part of the Hibernia mines, as well as a cemetery uphill where the miners are buried. After the closure of this mine, bats inhabited the mine. The hike up the mountain is approximately a mile and takes about a half hour to reach to the top. On a sunny day, there is a view of the New York City skyline from the top of the mountain.

7. Palisades Interstate Park- Alpine, New Jersey

Palisades Interstate Park contains over thirty miles of trails, varying in difficulty. It is easy to get on a difficult trail, so it is important to look on the website before you visit. The park runs along the windy Highway 9W, throughout Alpine, Englewood Cliffs, and Fort Lee. The most common view that visitors post pictures with is with the iconic George Washington Bridge in the background. There are picnic areas throughout the park, particularly the Ross Dock Picnic Area in Fort Lee.