La Follette Weekend Guide: Norris Lake in Two Days

Two days in La Follette means water time. This itinerary centers on Norris Lake — 800-plus miles of shoreline — with Cove Lake State Park and downtown La Follette rounding it out. Built for lake lovers and anyone considering the Norris Lake lifestyle.

Day One: Norris Lake

Morning: Get on the water early. Rent a boat or kayak from one of the area marinas — Shanghai Resort is a good starting point — or launch your own. Morning is the calmest water and the best fishing.

Afternoon: Swim coves, tubing, or lakeside lunch at a marina restaurant. The lake's sheer size means you can find a quiet cove even on busy weekends if you venture past the main channels.

Evening: Dinner at Shanghai Resort for the lakeside sunset, or back in town at The Local on Jacksboro Pike for Southern comfort food.

Day Two: Parks and Town

Morning: Cove Lake State Park in nearby Caryville — easy walking trails around the 210-acre lake, picnic areas, and a peaceful start to the day.

Afternoon: Norris Dam — tour the TVA's first major dam project and walk the adjacent state park trails. Then downtown La Follette for antique shops, galleries, and bookstores.

Evening: Stockyard Barbeque on Jacksboro Pike, or Mamma's Kitchen for burgers and pizza.

Where to Stay

Lakefront cabin and vacation rentals cluster around the marinas — book direct with local managers when you can. La Follette has standard hotels along the main corridors for a simpler base.

Good to Know

Boat rentals: Reserve ahead for summer weekends — marinas book out.

Lake levels: TVA manages Norris Lake levels; check before a fishing-focused trip.

Drive time: About 40 minutes north of Knoxville via I-75.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best marina near La Follette?

Shanghai Resort is the best-known full-service marina with dining. Several others — Whitman Hollow, Sugar Hollow, Indian River — serve different parts of the lake.

Can you swim in Norris Lake?

Yes — it's one of the cleanest large lakes in the region, and swimming coves are everywhere. Watch for boat traffic in main channels.

Is La Follette a vacation rental market?

Yes, Norris Lake drives a real second-home and vacation rental market. April Lester works with both buyers and investors here.

For the full attraction rundown, see Things to Do in La Follette, TN. Thinking about lake living? Call or text April Lester: (865) 617-9399.