In several locations on Burnaby Mountain, conifers can be seen growing on decaying nurse logs and stumps. Dead trees become snags, which provide habitats for birds and rodents. Western red cedar is fairly common while Douglas fir is found here and there. Western Hemlocks are common. Hemlocks can frequently be observed along with two species that are detrimental to their health.
Dwarf mistletoe is a parasite that causes the erratic growth of branches.
Various plant species are usually sighted at the forest's edge. These plants are often noticed along the sides of clearings, roads and trails on Burnaby Mountain. Blackthorn grows along roads as a shrub and is excellent for nesting. Woodland horsetail and the common plantain are also observed near roads and beside trails. The shiny leaves of honeysuckle and the white parachuted seeds of spiraea are seen at the perimeter of the forest.