I love this reply. I'd tell my daughter the exact same thing if she asked.

As pointed out, women getting attacked by strange men while they're backpacking is not something we hear about often. Actually, I don't think I've ever heard of that. I imagine it has happened, but it must be very rare.

I'll still suggest you might take a self defense class. Knowing how break a hold if someone grabs you and where and how to strike someone can do a lot to allay your worries and boost your confidence, and it can save your butt too.