I think the best thing would be to ride with someone else. Perhaps coordinate with friends, or form a local group. If this trail is as busy as you say it is, then I don't think you would have a problem, just scream really loud for help if something does happen and someone should hear you. Make sure you let people know where you are and what time you will return, and if you are running late, call and let someone know. Consistency is important here, if you are often late, then someone might not care if you are a hour late when you are in need of help. I usually don't worry about these kind of things being a young male and also realizing the danger from cars and road hazards are much larger than criminal danger.