I've found that the north end and the south end of the path are GREAT, while the middle part sucks. If you can deal with the stupid people for about five miles, the rest of the path is beautiful! If nothing else, ride south to the very end and you'll see so few people that it's completely worth it.

I'm a bit worried about riding in traffic by myself, which is why I stick to the path more often than not. Thought, we have ridden Sheridan north of the city and that's not too bad traffic-wise (I live in Rogers Park so that's not too far away for me).

Good luck figuring out what will work best for you. Just don't give up!