Hike more often

Love to hike! Especially by myself. I love being surrounded by nature-most especially by pine trees. They are so mystical and peaceful to me. They turn a forest into a place of magic.
But not too long ago-several months ago- I went hiking by myself in my favorite place. It was weird because as I came to the end of the hike, I actually felt very nervous-almost scared. It was the first time I had ever felt that way while out walking. There’s a difference between being cautious and just straight out nervous and I was nervous. But the hike ended and I went on my merry way. A few minutes later I talked to a friend via cell phone and he says that he just heard on the news that a sole female hiker was attacked about three hours prior at the site I was just at.
I have since tried to hike with other people, but it’s not the same. Am I stupid to go alone? I understand I can’t let fear keep me from doing what I love-not to mention, it doesn’t bother me that much. But I feel like I would be irresponsible to go out alone and since I am a single Mom-what kind of example am I showing my daughter. Is it better for her to see me do what I want despite the potential danger or to play it safe when she needs me to be around? Am I being too dramatic?