One of the best and most scenic parks in the area that I've found, Jetton Park is part of the Mecklenburg County Park system.
It is situated on the south end of Lake Norman and features a paved 1.75 mile walking/jogging/biking trail, numerous picnic tables and wooden decks overlooking the lake, playground, sand beach for wading and tennis courts.
The paved trail winds through the forest and is heavily shaded, keeping things cool during those summer evening runs. The entire area is well landscaped and there are many grassy areas perfect for picnicking as well.
There is an abundance of parking along the access road loop and covered restrooms and a small visitor center at the rear of the park.
The shaded and gently winding trail is the reason this park has become my favorite place to run.