These pictographs are paintings of animals, warriors, and even rifles that document the story of the Native Americans of the area for thousands of years.

The cave complex has long been a site of mystical power,[citation needed] a culturally significant gathering place for American Indians.

The walls were covered with red, white, and occasionally yellow figurines over drawings originally painted with black.

Excavations turned up jewelry too, such as pendants, bracelets, and beads crafted of seashells acquired from Pacific Coast Indians.

During the excavation period covering 1938 to 1941 (which included notable discoveries such as the "barbed harpoon points of the Eskimo culture, made of caribou horn," the graves of nine plus individuals, and over 30,000 artifacts), over 10,000 visitors were recorded at the site.

L. B. McMullen, then President of Eastern Montana Normal School, was instrumental in developing the original museum located at the site.

This move was met with criticism from aldermen who expressed concerns over the city's ability to monitor the park, assume liabilities, and provide services.