From the trailhead, take JKT trail south up to or around the back side of the water tanks. These lower trails will wind up the side of the hill into nice shaded oak woodland. The ridge area is more open with unobstructed views of the hills which is good for spotting raptors, swallows, and swifts.

Common oak woodland birds include California Scrub-Jay, Anna's Hummingbird, Hutton's Vireo, Acorn Woodpecker, Oak Titmouse, Wrentit, and Orange-crowned Warbler. This is good habitat for western spring migrants and winter sparrows. 

This Hotspot includes part of the "Orcutt Trails" complex of hiking trails near Orcutt Community Park. This section known as Orcutt Trail West climbs upward to the landmark water tanks and descends down the Valley View Trail below into a wide open space and heads westward for some distance. One path along the ridge offers great views of the surrounding Orcutt Hills and the distant Santa Maria Valley. This part of Orcutt Trails contains a mix of eucalyptus forest with some large cypress trees mixed in, grassy slopes, and manzanita and ceanothus chaparral. Much of the lower habitat just above Orcutt Hill Road is live oak woodland.

The main trailhead is located on Orcutt Hill Road south of Rice Ranch Road View Map. Or you can park at Orcutt Community Park and walk west along Scout Trail to reach the trailhead entrance. There is limited parking along Orcutt Hill Road next to the trailhead. This hilly trail complex is popular with hikers, dog walkers, and bikers.

Watch for poison oak which often grows close to some of the trails, especially around the oak trees. Also, be aware of oncoming bikes. Due to the ongoing development of the entire area, some of these trails may be impacted by construction which may limit future access rights.

Also, see the adjacent Hotspot Orcutt Trail East--Black Oak and Brodie Trails located to the east.