Climate and geography affect where Qinghai spruce forests grow in the Qilian Mountains of China. Temperature, precipitation, and slope aspect determine forest distribution. Denser forests thrive at elevations between 2635.5-3302.5 meters and with mean annual temperatures above -2.59°C. Sparse forests can be found at elevations between 2603.4-3325.8 meters and with mean annual precipitation above 378.1 mm. Forests also need soil at least 40 cm thick and grow at specific slope positions based on elevation. By considering both climate and geography, we can predict how forest boundaries may shift with climate change.