@David *****
I think you have a slightly skewed idea of the actual size of Chiang Mai proper. True it's not smack dab down town but it's hardly no mans land.
As far as getting there early, there are enough thaiz that do queue waiting up there for people for a cheap price. ;)
FWIW: At 8:30AM when the Bangkok immigration office opens there are over 400 people outside the door EVERY day.
It is what it is,