Drift Day with Pavement to Trails

Winter drifting just hits different.

I headed north of Winnipeg to link up with the crew from Pavement to Trails for one of their winter practice days — a session that started off cold, wet, and unpredictable. Freezing rain rolled through early in the day, coating the track and forcing drivers to slow things down, feel out conditions, and adapt lap by lap.

It was one of those days where patience mattered just as much as skill.

When the Conditions Fight Back

The morning runs were all about control. Limited grip, slick pavement, and visibility challenges meant drivers had to stay sharp and intentional. Watching cars tiptoe through corners with restraint was a reminder that winter sessions demand a completely different mindset — smooth inputs, smart throttle control, and knowing when to back off.

From a filming perspective, it added a layer of atmosphere you don’t get in summer sessions. Steam rising off warm engines, water spraying from tires, and muted winter light gave the footage a raw, almost cinematic edge.

Clearing Skies, Full Commitment

As the day went on, the freezing rain lifted and the track began to dry. With each run, confidence grew. Lines tightened. Speed picked up. Before long, drivers were able to push closer to their full potential — throwing bigger entries, carrying more angle, and laying down thick clouds of smoke despite the cold air.

That shift in conditions told the story of the day perfectly: adaptability turning into confidence.

Capturing Winter Drifting from the Air

I cut together a video from the session and supplied drone footage to showcase the full scope of the track and how drivers adjusted throughout the day. Winter drifting from the air hits especially hard — the contrast between dark pavement, white surroundings, and drifting smoke makes every pass feel dramatic and intentional.

My focus was on:

• Showing full corners and transitions, not just quick hits

• Capturing the changing conditions throughout the day

• Letting runs play out naturally to highlight driver progression

The result feels less like a highlight reel and more like a document of a true winter drift session.

Why Winter Sessions Matter

Days like this are where drivers sharpen real skill. Winter doesn’t hide mistakes — it exposes them. And when conditions improve, you can see exactly who’s been putting in the work.

Huge respect to Pavement to Trails for continuing to create space for drivers year-round, regardless of weather. These sessions build better drivers and an even stronger community.

This one was cold, wet, and absolutely worth it.