WhiteAngel,
Or anyone really that might know. I haven't found anything on the internet. This is random I know.

When I was a teen, my grandparents had and RV. One particular Summer, I believe it was in 1993. We went all around the interior west. We were in one of following states, Utah, South Dakota, Wyoming, or Colorado. Though I think it was in South Dakota or Wyoming. Because we were going to see family in both states that month. Also going to Devils Tower, Mt. Rushmore and Crazy Horse.

We were in the middle of nowhere. You know, no GPS at the time. But grandpa was told about this place. Took us 3 days to find it. It was a tiny town in a valley. I remember it being high desert. You know, some pines but for sure not up in the woods or the Rockies. Over looking the valley was a small mountain or large hill. Very distinct and by itself. At night on the very top was a very big, lit up white statue of Mother Mary. Or some religious person. for sure a woman though. The hill was tall enough and the statue was large enough to ben see about 3 miles away in all directions. It was a regional destination. Any ideas?