Couple things:
If going east to west to meet the D&R canal near New Brunswick, the trail is about 30 miles long. There is no camping along this route. Camping is available at Bulls Island, but that's 20 to 30 miles north of Trenton. So, big detour to get there.
As alternatives to cutting across the Eastern Shore straight to the Bay Bridge near Annapolis, there are Ferries that start running about this time of year that can get you across the bay. The first ferry takes you from Crisfield MD to Tangiers Island VA. The next ferry takes you from Tangiers to Reedsville Va. If these ferries are running they could add a picturesque element to your ride and open up your riding options. This would allow you to approach DC from the SE eventually using the Mt Vernon trail and then on to other DC trails. Or, you could avoid the Balto/DC area all together and ride Va's tidewater countryside towards Richmond. Just a thought. Beats waiting for a ride across the Annapolis Bay Bridge. The ride from the Cape May ferry to Crisfield is, i think, about 90 miles. All country roads. There is camping along or near the route. Camp at Jane's Island campground about 4 or 5 miles out of Crisfield. There is no camping on Tangiers but i believe they have a B&B.
Lastly, the ride down the Jersey shore is a decent ride. Chk out the MS ride that goes from Sandy Hook for northern Jersey options. Once south of Tom's River, it gets easy. You can follow Rt 9 until Ocean city and then cut over to the barrier islands - follow all the way to Cape May or go inland through the Pinelands. State park campgrounds with showers etc for $20 night or primative for $2. Nice roads!!!! Some with bike lanes!!!!!! All with decent shoulders.
Last edited by tom cotter; 04-07-11 at 11:58 AM.