For example, the presence of a body shield indicates that the figures refer to a time period before the introduction of the horse, prior to 1730. Biographical rock art depicts events which actually happened to the individual or which they may have witnessed. This may include battles or hunts. Ceremonial rock art depicts images from dreams, vision quests, and prayers. These may have been part of a ritual or the result of an individual's dream.
Some native people believe that the rock art was created by spirits.
Some believe that by interpreting the rock art, one could foresee the future. Some individuals will not come to the Milk River Valley to see the rock art because they believe that it is bad luck in that we are not meant to know the future. The exact meaning of the images may never be known. The greatest disturbance to the rock art is graffiti and vandalism. Although the gradual loss of rock art due to natural weathering cannot be stopped, we can help to stop destruction caused by humans.