To the OP, I am in the same boat. Planning my first long (300+mi) self-supported tour and not finding company among the people that I know (I am female, too, but haven't limited my search to women) My ACA maps arrived last week, instantly increasing my comfort level. (look at all the campgrounds!) My trip is on the opposite side of continent from 'home' (living in FL, touring the Pacific Coast), so not so easy to hop a train/bus home, but part of the excitement comes in the challenge. I had doubts about solo, too, until I read a few posts by valygrl who really convinced me that it's a good experience.
The one thing I am doing is allowing a lot of time. I want to take in all the sights and sounds of the new world around me.