Norris Lake Water Level Today
Real-time water elevation, temperature, and flow data for Norris Lake, Tennessee. Updated daily from USGS.
Water Surface Elevation
Sensor Data UnavailableWater Temperature
64° FChilly water. Good for trout fishing, too cold for prolonged swimming.
💧 Current Flow Rate
Current discharge: 1,380 cfs. Normal flow conditions suitable for most river activities.
Norris Lake Map & Location
GPS: 45.60761100°N, -99.99999999°W
About Norris Lake Water Level
Norris Lake (officially Norris Reservoir) is a stunning reservoir in the mountains of northeast Tennessee, created in 1936 as the first major project of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). Built by Norris Dam on the Clinch River, it was the first TVA dam and played a historic role in bringing electricity and economic development to rural Appalachia.
The lake covers 34,200 acres with 809 miles of shoreline, making it one of the clearest and cleanest lakes in Tennessee. With a full pool elevation of 1,020 feet above sea level, Norris Lake is nestled in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains, surrounded by protected forests.
Norris Lake is renowned for its exceptionally clear water — visibility often exceeds 15 feet, making it one of the clearest lakes in the southeastern United States. This clarity makes it a top destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, and underwater photography.
Fishing is excellent with populations of largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, striped bass, walleye, crappie, and rainbow trout. The lake's clear, deep water supports a healthy cold-water fishery. Popular recreation areas include Norris Dam State Park and Chuck Swan State Forest.
Explore more Tennessee water data at Tennessee water levels or browse the national dashboard for all 50 states.