Looking for ideas in and around Banff, Alberta

Do you like to hike? There are so many options. While the popular trails are obviously busy, there are also some wonderful hikes a little off the beaten path.

If you need hookups, Tunnel Mountain and Lake Louise Trailer have sites. Otherwise, you might consider some of the CG's a little further from town. Two Jack and Johnston Canyon are both nice. Some of the first come, first served CG's are also worth considering. Waterfowl Lakes is further north along the Icefields Parkway and makes a good base for exploring that area.

BTW, the Icefields Parkway is worth driving in both directions as the scenery seems totally different. We really liked heading north to south.

Do be aware that Canada Day (July 1) is on a Sunday this year so the parks will be busy on the days surrounding that weekend.

Bear Street Tavern-great beer and pizza.
The Keg Steakhouse-it's a chain but was quite good.
Magpie and Stump-quirky but decent Mexican.
Skip Wild Bill's Saloon.

Lake Minnewanka boat cruise.
Visit Lake Louise (very busy).
Columbia Icefields Parkway.
Banff gondola.
Bow Falls.
Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Parks Administration Building.
Hike, drive the park, enjoy the scenery.
Visit the golf course at dusk to see the elk.
Shop, shop, shop in downtown (very touristy and expensive).

I like the town of Canmore better(about 30 minutes outside). Less expensive, less crowded and they have a FANTASTIC Brazilian steakhouse called Gaucho. Be prepared to eat yourself silly! Grizzly Paw Brewing Company is pretty decent as well-excellent burgers. Not sure about the campgrounds there but we stayed in a nice condo for about 30% less than the cost in Banff.

Personally I prefer Jasper over Banff. It's less crowded, more wild, absolutely stunning and has a much less touristy vibe. It's somewhat "hipster" but the people there, locals and visitors alike, are phenomenal. It's hard to explain-you need to experience it to understand it.