The .17HMR and the .22WMR are both very range limited when it comes to hunting coyotes. Assuming: you are patient, you will use a high level of discretion when calling your shots, and you are well practiced with the rifle, you can hunt coyotes out to about 100-150 with the .17HMR.

Yes, the .22WMR does perform better on coyotes with heavier bullets at longer ranges. The difference in trajectory is worthless. You're talking about a difference of a matter of mere inches at any huntable ranges, and the heavier .22WMR does buck the wind better, and retains more downrange energy than the .17HMR. BUT, that's not to say there's anything wrong with the .17HMR. Frankly, only the most dedicated coyote hunters are going to really SEE the difference between the two for terminal performance.

I have been favoring the 20gr Hornady XTP hollow points lately. The 17grn V-maxes just don't hold up against coyotes (fantastic rabbit shredder though).

Here's what you need to do. Since you're new to the rifle, and considering you're in PA and are hunting in cover, start out slow at first, and gradually test out the max range of your load. Start out limiting your shots to 75yrds, then as you get more and more fur on the ground, start walking it out a little further until you start seeing the performance start declining. You'll eventually start seeing shorter penetration, more spinners, more runners, etc.

With ANY rimfire, expect to track some, and expect to lose some.