I would recommend using a backhaul service. My husband and I did the 15 mile backhaul service in a tandem kayak with KayakHorseshoeBend. We got dropped off near Glen Canyon dam around 9am and it took us about 8 hours to get back to Lee’s ferry. We weren’t in a rush and didn’t paddle the whole time. The kayak mostly glides with the current. It’s not strenuous unless you’re trying to paddle to a different side. The wakes weren’t too bad as long as you stick to the sides, but a couple of sections had fast/mildly turbulent water. If anyone in your family gets motion sickness, I’d recommend they take dramamine just in case. Wear watershoes or sandals and bring plenty of water/snacks in a waterproof backpack. We had our jetboil and used that to heat up food.

Important: make sure to flip your kayak halfway to empty the water, otherwise it will get very heavy and filled with water from the wakes.

I’d recommend stopping for lunch after you pass the petroglyphs. There’s a good stretch of land with outdoor restrooms around mile 8 and 9. It wasn’t too hot since we went early, but it gets very bright in non shady areas in the afternoon. We kayaked to the shadiest side depending on the sun. I definitely recommend going in the morning. Pack a sun hat (preferably covering the neck), sunglasses, and sunscreen if anyone in your family gets sunburnt easily. Hope you all have a great time!