The Anchorage Daily News photography team has assembled a powerful visual retrospective of 2025, capturing a year of unprecedented events that tested Alaska's resilience and showcased its unique character. Their collection reveals a state navigating complex challenges while maintaining its distinctive identity through traditional celebrations, political activism, and profound connections to the natural world. From the frozen trails of the Iditarod to the storm-battered coastlines of Western Alaska, these images document a year that residents will long remember.
Political turbulence dominated headlines throughout 2025, with photographers documenting historic moments that placed Alaska at the center of national and international attention. The August summit between President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson drew global media coverage and sparked massive local protests, with hundreds of demonstrators lining the Seward Highway to express opposition. The Trump administration's policies also prompted multiple demonstrations, including a June "No Kings" protest that saw thousands gather in downtown Anchorage. Meanwhile, the state legislature's dramatic override of Governor Mike Dunleavy's education funding veto became a defining moment for Alaska's political landscape, with emotional scenes captured in Juneau as lawmakers and advocates celebrated the bipartisan effort.
Sports and outdoor traditions provided compelling visual narratives throughout the seasons. The 2025 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, starting from Fairbanks with thirty-three mushers, delivered dramatic moments from the ceremonial start through Paige Drobny's third-place finish in Nome. Jessie Holmes' victory celebration with his wheel dogs exemplified the deep bond between mushers and their teams. Beyond mushing, photographers captured West High School's track team training in spring snow, the Crow Pass Crossing trail race traversing 23 miles of rugged terrain, and ski teams training on Eagle Glacier's world-class courses. These images underscore how Alaskans embrace outdoor recreation despite harsh conditions.
Environmental challenges and natural disasters shaped much of the year's visual record. Typhoon Halong devastated Western Alaska villages in October, forcing mass evacuations via Alaska National Guard aircraft and leaving communities like Kipnuk and Tuntutuliak struggling with destroyed homes and spoiled food supplies. The storm displaced hundreds of students who continued their education in Anchorage schools. Earlier in the year, high winds gusting over 90 miles per hour pounded the Anchorage Hillside, while a dead fin whale near Fish Creek became both a scientific opportunity and community effort. Wildlife photography revealed brown bears causing traffic jams in Denali, sandhill cranes along coastal refuges, and a bat flying near Eagle River Nature Center, reminding viewers of Alaska's rich biodiversity.
Human interest stories provided intimate glimpses into daily life and community bonds. The canonization ceremonies for Saint Olga in Kwethluk drew hundreds of Orthodox faithful in June, representing a significant cultural milestone. Senior citizens from Mexico found joy dancing at the Anchorage Senior Activity Center, while teenagers experienced their first country dance at Muldoon's Pink Cadillac. The reinstallation of Spenard's iconic palm tree sign celebrated local heritage, and Gordon Severson, at 95, continued serving as a courthouse bailiff. These moments reveal the diverse tapestry of Alaskan society, where tradition and modernity coexist.
The photography collection concludes with scenes of perseverance and celebration, from University of Alaska commencement ceremonies to community potlucks featuring traditional native foods. Images of reindeer racing down Anchorage's Fourth Avenue during Fur Rendezvous and children sledding at Russian Jack Springs Park capture the state's unique winter culture. Through every season and circumstance, the Anchorage Daily News photographers demonstrated how visual journalism preserves not just events, but the emotions, relationships, and spirit that define Alaska in 2025. Their work ensures future generations will understand both the challenges faced and the strength displayed by the Last Frontier's residents.
