I'm also from Western PA, I've hunted twice with Lawrence Dyer and Sons Outfitters in Plaster Rock New Brunswick, once over 9-11 and once in 2004. Great hunt, lots of bears sighted, he routinely takes bears over 300 lbs. with some eclipsing 500 lbs. Unfortunately in recent years, he has also guided Michael Waddell, Ted Nugent, Jimmy Houston, and a few other celebs. His prices have increased dramatically for his hunts, not what I'd be willing to pay again for a bear hunt. I would think if you could find a reasonably priced outfitter in the same area you'd be in luck. As for the drive north, we drove to Bangor, ME and stayed the night in a hotel, had a nice dinner and took advantage of the complimentary breakfast in the AM. We then drove the remaining 3+ hours to camp. Good luck on that drive if gas breaks $4.00 per gallon this summer. Good luck on whatever you decide.