The section between Cumberland and Hancock really does feel like no-man's land... my first time through, I camped. The second time, I timed it to get through that section in one morning and be done with it.

There is one other option along that section, which is to cross the bridge into Paw-Paw WV, which is near the tunnel bearing the same name. That's near where we camped the first time through and you could tell by the noise across the river that there was a town there (which I later verified on a map).

Did you stop at the bike shop in Hancock? The owner has a cool set up going with an enclosed camping area out back. I think it was $10 for a night which gets you a roof over your head in the form of a relatively simple shelter... but it's comfortable with a couple of sleeping mats and netting keeps the skeeters away. It also gives you a nice fire pit and a warm shower. The night that I stayed there I was alone, as my companions continued on to DC but I had to head back the other way due to scheduling issues. I just went into the public laundry mat in town and ran into some other bike-packers there; they even shared a beer with me, which was nice.

My group also spent a night in Meyersdale, in a sort of hostel-room in the The Morguen Toole Company Hotel. It was a cheaper rate as the room had four bunk beds (sleeping 8). We met up with another group along the way and all ended up in the room together that night. Being there for the night of a fireworks show was a nice touch.

What makes the trip, for me, is the people that you meet along the way. Hearing someone's ride report is a nice way to relive it as well, thanks for sharing!