Girdwood Area
 

Arriving in ANC late Friday night and spending the night near the Airport. While we are waiting for the rest of the group to arrive late Sat night, I'm thinking we could take a day trip to Girdwood area on Sat. And then back to ANC and spend the night again in ANC before we go to Denali on Sun.
Is 1 day enough time to either the Dog Sled and / or the Winner Creek Trail???
What should we allow time wise on each???

Yes you have plenty of time. Another choice is a Prince William Sound boat tour- fantastic scenery and close up glacier viewing. Can also do glacier trekking at Matanuska. Independence Mine and Hatcher Pass. Plenty of stuff to fill your day.

Not sure what time you arrive on friday, but why not just spend the night in GW that first night. You would have enough time for both, IMO. and maybe even a ride to the top or the tram.

I think Independence Mine and Hatcher Pass which are north of Anchorage would be a good place to stop on the way to Denali. If you are not planning to include a boat tour with your friends, I would put that to the top of the list for your free day. Just remember that anything out of Whittier requires going thru the one-way toll tunnel so check their schedule. I would be tempted to do the Seward cruise and stay in Seward for the night and meet your friends Sunday morning in ANC unless you have to pick them up at the airport.

These are all great suggestions. I think I'll let the group decide. I'm tired of making decisions. Thanks !!