Alpine timberline, which is defined as the upper limit of altitudinal tree distribution, is one of the most conspicuous vegetation boundaries seen worldwide. The alpine timberline can be used an ideal monitor of external environmental changes,with important implications for global climate change research. Three approaches (tree-ring,dendrometer and micro-coring) are reviewed in the research progress in radial growth of trees in alpine timberline,with some perspective provided for future research.