I just landed last month. I am working in US, my visa is H1B. The canadian officer is very nice and wormheart. it was very easy. for your concerns,
1. you can land any time, we did it on saturdy.
2. I don't know, we rented a car to go there
3. you don't need cheat them. just tell them the truth.
actually, I gave my canadian friend's address. they sent my maple card to my friend, last week I got it. it took one month.
4. you can come back US right away, it dosn't matter.
5. the officer told me, before I get maple card, I can enter Canada by car just using Landing paper, by flight I need apply a visa.