Late Quaternary folding rate of the Anjihai anticline in north Tian Shan is studied. Folding rate is investigated via OSL and topographic studies of folded river terraces. The Anjihai anticline accommodated ~ 0.4 to 1.3 mm/a of shortening since 53 ka. On average, late Quaternary folding rate is higher than long-term folding rate. This difference may due to basinward propagation of Tian Shan in Quaternary.