Howdy -
MN has good black bear hunting, but just like the Rockies, kind of difficult for you to scout.
I have not hunted Bear yet, but been around Bear Hunters and their stands a lot.
In MN, the primary method is stand hunting over bait. Baiting occurs over a moderate length of time, not just a couple days before the hunt. So, besides the scouting - there's this time investment which makes it difficult.
I have spent a lot of time in stand for deer, in bear country with fresh sign, but have only seen a bear once from stand. I'm sure the odds would increase if I was specifically hunting bear - but it's always surprised me that I haven't seen more bear on stand than I have.
I've seen a lot more bear in peoples back yards, busting up bird feeders and stuff like that. Maybe that's the key right there.
I hope you find an area closer to you where you guys could spend good quality time together scouting. Good luck!