I've usually done ORD-SFO-ANC to maximize mileage, at least outbound.
The return flights haven't been as convenient in terms of departure times.
I didn't check this years schedule as yet, but previously you could do this all on UA metal. ORD-DEN-ANC is the other UA metal option, and with CO I believe the routing is via IAH. I do not believe HNL is a valid routing on your low fare.