The uplift and deformation of Jinta’nanshan Mountains is generally attributed to the northward pushing effect of the Xizang(Tibetan) Plateau. The characteristics of the tectonic mechanism in this active area therefore provide a valuable insight into the northward extension of the Xizang(Tibetan) Plateau. According to field observation, a well preserved gravel layer was accumulated on the top surface of Jinta’nanshan Mountains, presenting weak consolidation, well psephicity and sorted. Their lithological composition mainly consists of sandstone, quartz sandstone, and siliceous sandstone. The surface level of this gravel layer can be tracked for a long distance, and correlated with the terrace T2 along the Heihe River, based on their lithological composition and special distribution. The field measurements of terrace elevation were performed using a differential GPS system. These results combined with the analysis for the attitude of underlying stratum, indicate that the terrace level was folded obviously and in the form of limb rotation. The geometrical characteristics of this fold deformation along the terrace T2 are characterized by tilted forelimb, gentle back limb with broad core. On the basis of the deformational analysis for the terrace T2, a preliminary model was constructed to evaluate and calculate this fold deformation and correlated fault systems. These results suggest that the uplift and the shortening occurring on the hanging wall of this fault, after the formation of terrace T2, are 200 m and 143~190 m, respectively. A averaged sliding rate of 1.18±0.16 mm/a along the listric fault is further calculated since the middle Pleistocene. Owning to the deep thrust fault, Jinta Nanshan has been deformed in the form of fold, and resultant faults can extend a depth of ca. 16 km into subsurface. Based on the tectonic analysis in the region, the fold deformation along the terrace T2 are probably associated with the faults, which were formed by collision between Alashan and Qaidam—Qilian block in the north margin of Jinta’nanshan Mountains. The uplift of Jinta’nanshan Mountains since the middle Pleistocene maybe represents the current process of northeastward extension of the Xizang(Tibetan) Plateau.