I biked it about two weeks ago. Roads weren't bad. Some nice views of the lake especially at roadside parks and boat launches. I was riding south from Escanaba to Menominee so I can tell you that the paved shoulder is in good condition for the entire route in that direction.
I haven't uploaded the pages for that section of the tour yet but I should have them up in a few days.
http://gltlakemichigan.crazyguyonabike.com
Based on the route profile I have for that day it appears like there was a slight downhill for me from Escanaba for about an hour.
The Upper Penisula is a very beautiful place with lots of great people. Enjoy.
~Jamie N
www.bicycletouring101.com