Highlands Trail Foundation:Working to create, support, and advance the Allegheny Highlands Trail system in the Potomac Highlands Region of West Virginia.
The Highlands Trail Foundation (HTF) is dedicated to developing and maintaining recreational trails in the Potomac Highlands of West Virginia. Our primary focus is on the Allegheny Highlands Trail (AHT), a scenic rail trail that stretches across Randolph and Tucker counties. Whether you’re an avid cyclist, a trail runner, or simply enjoy the beauty of West Virginia’s outdoors, our mission is to offer sustainable trails and meaningful outdoor experiences for all.
We host several exciting events throughout the year to showcase the Allegheny Highlands Trail and support our mission. From the popular Blackwater Canyon Half Marathon to the Tygart Valley Half Marathon and the annual Ramps and Rail Festival, there are plenty of ways to get involved, meet fellow trail enthusiasts, and enjoy the beauty of West Virginia.
A former board member and president, Don Black was instrumental in establishing the Blackwater Canyon Half Marathon and setting up a fund with the Tucker Community Foundation to support trail projects in the area. We are grateful for his service and extend deepest sympathy to all who loved our friend Don.DONALD CHARLES BLACK
With great sadness, we announce the passing of Donald Charles Black, 83, of Tucker County, West Virginia. Don passed away on Friday, January 9, 2026, in Arvada, Colorado. Born August 13, 1942, to Jim and Beula Mae Black (McNaughton) and growing up in Parker, Pennsylvania, Don attended Maryville College in Maryville, Tennessee. There, he met and married Tena Jane Criner of Nicholasville, Kentucky.
They made their home in Carlisle, Pennsylvania and had 3 sons. In August of 1985 Don and his family moved to Tucker County, West Virginia. Don and Tena moved to Arvada, Colorado in April 2024 to stay near his son and family.
Don thoroughly enjoyed his career as a physical therapist and acting as Administrator of Courtland Acres Nursing Home in Thomas, WV. He was involved throughout the community in Tucker County with various non-profit organizations and community engagement. He impacted many lives.
Don was a patient, kind, fun-loving outdoorsman who loved adventure, hiking, hunting, skiing, and making fun memories with his family and friends. Don was a talented singer who was involved with many community choruses, church choirs and barbershop quartets throughout his life. Don leaves behind a legacy of friendliness, giving and selfless sacrifice.
Don is survived by his beloved wife Tena Black and his three sons Chris (wife Norma), James and Ben, as well as his brother Kenneth Black of Parker, PA. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Daniel (Karissa) and Analise, as well as his nephew Derek (Sarah and their children Lilly, Ivy, Violet and James).
A Memorial Service will be held at Restoration Covenant Church on Monday, January 12th at 2 p.m., at 7135 W 68th Ave, Arvada, CO.
An additional Memorial Service will be held at Canaan Valley Baptist Church in West Virginia on Thursday, January 15, at 2 p.m., at 722 Cortland Rd, Davis, WV.
A time of fellowship with refreshments and snacks will be held at the church immediately after the service.
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Dark, cold, and snow have nothin’ on half marathon training! Who is getting in their base miles with us this winter?!? #halfmarathon #fitforlife
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Everyone registered to participate in Run For It tomorrow, please wear your yellow HTF shirt. Thanks!
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2025 Blackwater Canyon Half photos are posted on runsignup, this one is from the mid-canyon album. 📸: Katie Wolpert #blackwatercanyonhalfmarathon #racedayphotos #blackwatercanyon #trailrunning #runwv #highlandstrailfoundation #thankphotographer📷 #runsignup
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2025 Blackwater Canyon Half photos are posted on runsignup. This one is from the Imre Barsy album. #blackwatercanyonhalfmarathon #racedayphotos #runwv #highlandstrailfoundation #thankyouphotographer📷
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2025 Photos by Imre Barsy
Blackwater Canyon Half Marathon
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The Blackwater Canyon Half Marathon is on Saturday September 12, 2026.0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Congratulations to each and every one of our 19 2025 Black Hel Double Finishers!!! You all showed amazing strength and joy out there!!!!! #HelvetiaWV #blackwatercanyonhalfmarathon #helvetiamountain10k #blackheldouble #wvmtr #highlandstrailfoundation
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By supporting the Highlands Trail Foundation, you contribute to the Allegheny Highlands Trail’s development, maintenance, and promotion. Your support also helps us organize trail events that benefit locals and visitors. Find out how to support us:
