Hi Jason,

I can only comment on the Halifax Area and coastal bicycling 30 miles to the south-west and north-east from Halifax, whereas I've driven most of the inland roads.
The number 2 highway Halifax to Truro is quite busy with lot's of stores and not much paved shoulder. Once past Truro I would imagine a lot less traffic.
The rails-to-trails is very good parallel with the 3 to Chester or Bridgewater. Once you leave the coast and head inland it's pretty sparse with the only stores being at the intersection of some of the main roads in the middle. The roads are long rolling hills again no paved shoulders. Once you reach the valley I've heard they've been doing a good job on their rails-to-trails which would take you to the ferry.

If you google-maps and turn on Bicycling routes you'll see the majority of the routes are in the southern coastal areas of the province.

Municipality of the County of Annapolis - BICYCLE ANNAPOLIS COUNTY: A Cyclist's Guide To Outdoor Adventure

If I can be any further help, don't hesitate.