We will have one day at the entrance to Denali
National park before taking the bus into the backcountry of Denali for a few days.

I need advice on some great things to do at the entrance? Travelling with kids ages 7 to 11.
I'm not interested in rapids, but would consider a more tame type of river trip, if that's recommended. Dog Kennels?
We will arrive from anchorage by noon, and don't head into the backcountry until the following afternoon.

What's not to be missed?

There are two visitors' centers within a short walk of each other at the entrance. They have some interesting exhibits, movies, etc. There are also a number of ranger guided hikes from there. I personally was not too enthralled with the dog kennels but many people were and your kids might enjoy them. You can get the free bus right at the visitors' center.

Take the shuttle to Savage River, which is 14 miles (paved) into the park. Nice trails up and down the river, a couple of nice short climbs, nice scenery ... should see pikas and marmots and ptarmigan, maybe a fox near the picnic area or a bear browsing on the river, and Dall sheep on the hillside. Many times on the drive up we see moose.

Thank you Panecott and BillH for your suggestions. I found out the raft trips require kids to be 11, so that's out. The hotel recommended the Husky Homestead for the dog kennels...anyone know if that's a good one?

Since we will be taking the six hour bus into the backcountry the following day, and spending two nights there, I wonder if we should still try Savage lake area?Sounds lovely, though.

Anyone hear of a covered wagon pulled by horses tour, or Denali Jeep Safari or a Jet Boat Tour on the River?? None of them sound particularly exciting, but that's what the hotel suggested.

Definitely go see the dogs. There are often some puppies or young dogs in training, too. Also, see the films in the visitor centers. It helps identify wildlife you'll see in the park.

Check out the junior ranger program at the visitors center. I'm sure your kids would enjoy that.

Just in Denali last month and enjoyed a few hours of rafting/oar boat with Denali Outdoor Center. Check out the site, they require guests to be over 5yrs old for the oar rafting. Great scenery, informative guide, we loved it. http://www.denalioutdoorcenter.com/index.html

Also recommend the Dog Kennel Demonstration and hiking at Savage River Loop (especially later in the day when animals were more easily spotted and coming to the river for water).