Half hostel, half budget hotel, this YWCA facility has an unbeatable location along the Bow River directly opposite downtown Banff, plus your overnight fees help support community initiatives like domestic-violence prevention. The downsides? The rather grim building still feels like the old hospital it once was, and the bare-bones private rooms are quite expensive for what you get.
The best private rooms are on the top floor, while downstairs you'll find gender-segregated eight-bunk dorms (some with en-suite bathrooms) along with a guest kitchen and laundry room. Front-desk staff are mainly locals who are happy to share insider tips about Banff and the surrounding area.