In July 2023, the state of Vermont (VT) and town of Johnson were hit with catastrophic flooding. The town of Johnson and Railroad Street, right off the main street, were some of the areas hit hardest throughout the entire state. The Lamoille River crested at 21 feet in Johnson and almost all of Railroad Street, with the exception of the bridge, experienced flash flooding during early hours. The town experienced significant devestation and loss that have impacted the town to this day (spring 2026 when this geocache was placed). On Railroad Street, many individuals lost their homes, personal belongings, local businesses and the town library needed relocation (in 2025). A year later, in July 2024, the town of Johnson and Railroad Street experienced another flash flooding similar to summer 2023.
When you're on the bridge searching for this cache, turn around and look down Railroad Street facing toward the village. Now imagine looking down the street and not being able to see the road or sidewalks. Instead, imagine river water high enough to fill the first floor of living spaces and rushing so quickly that you could easily get swept away.
~ This aerial photograph is of the opposite side of Railroad Street from the bridge on the day of flash flooding in July 2023. In this picture you'll see multiple businesses, including the town laundromat, fully underwater. ~
P.S. This geocache will forever hold a special place in my heart, as I was a former Railroad Street resident and my dear friend lived there at the time of the flooding. Matter of fact, we were there when flash flooding started and helped people get out of their homes, helped people drive their vehicles to higher land and experienced the strength of the water as it was higher than waist-level. Although Johnson is a small town, it is a resiliant and brave town that has continued to move forward with change even during times of devestation where hope can feel lost. If you were in Johnson or any other Vermont town that experienced flash flooding in summer 2023 and/or summer 2024, please share with us when you log finding this cache! Together, we're Vermont Strong. *hugs*
** Notes: You can park a vehicle in town (the parking lot near the Johnson post office and former Sterling Market grocery store) and walk up Railroad Street to access this cache. You can alternatively leave your car at the local park at the opposite end of the road that is near the local food bank. || You'll be looking for a nano cache along the footbridge. There is a teenie log within. Take a walk, ride your bike, and explore the Lamoille Valley Railtrail right up the road while geocaching! || You can access this cache year-round and in any weather, as long as it is safe and easy to get to.
Learn more about the flooding of July 2023 here and via Google search: Vermont Public Radio Local News Article