Just so you don't feel so alone in your problem, get this:

I have groomed pet for over 18 years, I have had over 20 cats in the past 20 or so years, I went to college majoring in animal science.....blah, blah, blah......and I STILL have a cat whose nails I cannot do myself. He also does not like to be held.

As for hiding, you should find her and keep her confined before the appointment time so she cannot run and hide. It may seem a bit cruel, but it will not hurt her to be confined even for a few hours if that is necessary. I have had several cats (and still do, that need to be "captured" WAY before the time they need to go to the vet so that I do not miss the appointment because of that very reason.

You may be able to have the claws clipped each year DURING her yearly exam at the vet's and then 6 months later. That way it is only 2 times a year. If her claws can wait that long, that is what I would do. (some grow faster than others, so you will need to decide how often based on HER)