From Chicago to Anchorage: The Final Stretch by Jackie Denton

Monday, March 3, 2025

Spending my last day in Alaska was bittersweet. Before my late-night flight back to Chicago, I wanted to soak in every last moment of this incredible place.

Driving down the Seward Highway, I kept my eyes peeled for moose and Dall sheep, all while taking in the breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and the vast, open wilderness. Alaska’s beauty never gets old, no matter how many times I visit.

One of the highlights of the day was watching the Iditarod restart in Fairbanks from the communications room, where I have volunteered remotely for the past two years. Seeing the excitement unfold in real time and knowing I play a small role in this legendary race is always a special feeling.

Saying goodbye to friends was the hardest part. The bonds I’ve made here are strong, and I hope I’ll be back—but that doesn’t make leaving any easier.

This is my last blog post for this trip, and it’s hard to believe the journey is coming to an end. I also have one more blog to write as a finalist for Teacher on the Trail. Then, it’s time to wait and see who is selected in April. Past finalists told me this would be the most exhilarating and exhausting experience of my life, and they were absolutely right. No matter what happens next, this journey has been unforgettable.