This weekend marks the 8th annual The Great Maine Outdoor Weekend Sept 25-27 celebrating fall activities with more than 120 free or low cost events all over the state. With the stunning late summer weather we've had all during September (and a forecast of a 65-70 degree sunny weekend on tap), this is the ideal first weekend of fall to enjoy a "staycation" and go exploring in your state.

Here are four events happening locally.

1. Erickson Fields Preserve Trail Grand Opening, Rockport

Friday, Sept. 25, 4- 7 p.m.

This event celebrates the grand opening of the Erickson Fields Preserve Trail. The event begins with a garden tour followed by a guided trail walk.

2. Fall Foliage Viewing from Penobscot Narrows Observatory, Prospect

September 25-27, 9—5 p.m.

Ride an elevator 420 feet up to the top of the world's tallest bridge observatory for tremendous views including Fort Knox.

3. Tip Toe Mountain Preserve Geology, Vinalhaven

Saturday, Sept. 26, 1—4 p.m.

The geology at the shores of Tip Toe Mountain Preserve is unique to Vinalhaven. There are formations and rocks there you will not see anywhere else. Join geologist George Kendrick to learn more about the geologic events that created them. This is a not-to-be missed reprise of one of our more popular walks this summer. Hike in along an uneven woods trail, then there will be some rough footing over the seaweed and rocks.

4. Paddling and Pedestrians Along the Passy Rail Trail, Belfast

Sunday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m.

The newly created Passy Rail Trail follows the Passagassaweak River. Boaters start in Belfast and paddle up the river and walkers to begin at the Rail Terminus Museum on Oak Hill Road and walk toward Belfast. In the middle, they will host a refreshment table and info booth.

Last year more than 15,000 people took part in these events. To find out what other events are happening all over the state visit: greatmaineoutdoorweekend.org