There is a very large paper wasp or hornets nest inside my attic,
attached to the interior of the gable attic vent. It was active last
summer, but I don't see any activity now, so it may be abandoned. The
temperature here has been between 35-55 degrees. Never a hard freeze
yet. However, these things just freak me out, and I don't want to
chance waking up a dormant hive.

The nest is actually built up against the wall, not just hanging like
a tear drop, so I would have to scrape it off the wall or something.

I want to insulate my attic and also install a bathroom fan, so I'd
like to get rid of the nest first.

What is the best way to remove it without getting stung?

Rob