New signage highlights growing ‘Buckshot’s Backyard’ trail system

MINOT, N.D. - A series of new signs now mark Minot State University's bike and walking trail, "Buckshot's Backyard," giving users clearer access points and improving safety at one of the University's newest outdoor attractions.

Installed in early October by the MSU Facilities Management team with sponsorship support from Beaver Creek, the signs represent a major step forward in establishing the trail as a well-used community asset.

"We wanted people to know the trail was there and to help keep pedestrians and cyclists safe," said Kelsey Higginson, assistant professor in exercise science and rehabilitation, who spearheaded the project. "Getting the signage in place has been a big goal, and Beaver Creek was willing to sponsor the signs, which made all the difference."

Beaver Creek, founded in 2008, is a leading logistics provider in the Bakken Basin with roots that lie in its Native American heritage. Based in New Town, the 100% Native-owned company delivers exceptional service, fosters community growth, and is committed to land stewardship, emphasizing sustainable practices and respect for the environment.

The signage marks three loops - the Amphitheater Loop, Facilities Loop, and Coulee Loop - totaling nearly two miles when connected. Designed as a natural dirt trail with no excavation, the system winds through the open area on the north end of campus, providing rolling hills, scenic viewpoints, and opportunities for walking, biking, running, and even snowshoeing in winter.

"The trail will become more visible and smoother through foot and bike traffic," Higginson said. "The more people who use it, the better it will become."

Buckshot's Backyard began in 2024 after Higginson sought a place to teach mountain biking basics for MSU's new outdoor recreation and lifetime pursuits course, designed to prepare future physical education teachers. After early conversations with Val's Cyclery, she approached Minot State President Steven Shirley at the university's Staff Senate Fall Kickoff.

"He said MSU owned the property all the way to 20th Avenue," Higginson explained. "I formally asked if I could develop a trail there once the school year started."

What followed was a grassroots collaboration. Higginson cleared the first path herself with a weed trimmer. Val's Cyclery helped design the initial coulee trail, and trail builder Carson Schnell shaped it into a rideable route. Additional loops were laid out and cut before winter 2024, and a campus poll later gave the trail its name: Buckshot's Backyard.

Today, the trail is open to the public whenever classes are not actively using it. E-assist bikes are allowed, though motorsports are prohibited. The path makes for a wonderful snowshoe trail in winter, and one adventurous faculty member has cross-country skied the course. Higginson noted there is a plan moving forward for better maintenance with a mowing schedule for next year

Higginson hopes the trail continues to inspire new uses.

"I mostly wanted to put an area of campus that just sits there to some sort of productive use," she said. "Now that the trail is there, other groups have talked about adding on - science wants native plants for a scavenger hunt, the Looyenga Leadership Center is considering a challenge course.

"It could become a really cool area for people to get out and walk, bike, run, or snowshoe."