This summer, the Superior National Forest and partners are offering several free, fun and interactive opportunities for visitors to learn about resources and programs on the Superior National Forest. The first are Naturalist programs, including hikes and campfire talks. These are offered weekly Tuesday through Saturday at resorts, campgrounds and recreation sites along the North Shore June 22 through Sept. 4. For more information visit www.fs.fed./r9/superior.

There are three weekend Dragonfly and Damselfly Extravaganza outings in the Tofte and Gunflint Ranger Districts to search for dragonflies and developing a species list for the Forest. The remaining outing is Aug. 14-15, and advanced registration is required by calling (218)387-3236.

The Chik Wauk Interpretive Center on the Gunflint Trail is now open. The 75-year-old rough-cut stone lodge and property are now on the National Register of Historic Places. This public history museum focuses on interpreting the history of the Gunflint Trail region through the use of artifact displays and other interpretive media. The center will be open daily from 10 am to 5 pm through mid-October.

Finally, the outfitters of the Gunflint Trail Association, in partnership with the Superior National Forest, have put together a series of interpretive programs and summer seminars to help kids and adults feel comfortable in the woods. The program, called Becoming a Boundary Waters Family, is held every Thursday until Aug. 26 at 3 p.m. at the new Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center and 7 p.m. at the Grand Marais Recreation Park and Campground. For more information on any of these presentations, check the Forest website listed above or pick up a flyer at the Gunflint Ranger Station in Grand Marais or at the Tofte Ranger Station on Highway 61 at Tofte. No need to register, just show up!