The lake has a maximum width of about 1.2 miles and a maximum depth of 210 feet, and these make it the largest lake on a tributary of the Tennessee River. As of 2011, Norris Lake has an ecological health rating of fair.

Approximately 75-80% of Norris Lake shoreline is controlled by TVA and the State of Tennessee. These areasare designated Wildlife Management Areas, State Parks, Country & City Parks and Marinas.

Norris Lake stretches 129 miles long from point to point with over 809 miles of shoreline and contains 33,840 acres of surface space. With that much acreage it provides a ton of boating pleasure and plenty of space for all boaters and their families to experience the crown jewel of the TVA water system.

Norris has 809 miles of shoreline and 33,840 acres of water surface. It is the largest reservoir on a tributary of the Tennessee River. In a year with normal rainfall, the water level in Norris Reservoir varies about 29 feet from summer to winter to provide seasonal flood storage.