Soil particle sizes are heavily influenced by till deposited by the Pleistocene glaciation. They range from sandy to loamy. Soils on higher parts of Burnaby Mountain are generally silty. On the steep northern slopes the C horizon is most acidic. The greatest difference in acidity between the C and A horizons occurs around the summit.
Climate varies slightly depending on one's position on the mountain.
This mainly depends on when the sun's rays reach an area. Therefore, the direction of slope is the most important factor. For example, the north escarpment is usually moist because it does not receive direct sunlight. The larger trees also create microclimates within the forest. Forest canopies allow for less fluctuation in temperature and provide some protection from frost.