Which direction does the Panama Canal run across Panama?

It is a common misconception that the Panama Canal runs directly from east to west across the isthmus. In reality, the canal's path is more complex due to the geography of the region.1

The canal begins at its entrance near Colón on the Atlantic side and runs due south through the Gatún Locks. Upon reaching the widest portion of Gatún Lake, the canal turns sharply toward the east and follows a generally southeast course until it reaches the Bay of Panama on the Pacific side. Consequently, the Pacific terminus near Balboa is located approximately 25 miles (40 km) east of the Atlantic terminus.1