The common diversion originates from the Kern River, about 1 mile (1.6 km) south of Gordon's Ferry.
The canal terminates south of Bear Mountain Boulevard (SR 223), just west of Arvin.
After crossing SR 178 (Crosstown Freeway), it turns southeast.
It continues southeast, running through the center of Lake Street.
At Williams Street, the canal shifts south following the Union Pacific Railroad's right-of-way.