I rode down in Greenville during the holidays and they have built a really nice skills park for all skill levels.  The have a beginner intermediate and extreme for each big skill that a mountain biker needs.  The have skinny's that start off on the ground and then work up to elevated then to over a creek elevated.  The have a rock garden that is just a few little rocks then to some bigger rocks then to busted concrete that is really hard.  my favorite part was the step downs the start off with just a little roll down trail to a nice step down.  I think this kind of trail and skills area would be perfect for charlotte.

it is called gateway park it is in Travlers rest sc.  it is a fairly small park but has a bunch of fun stuff took my 6 year old to ride while we were down for christmas.  It is about 2 and a half hours from charlotte.  There are a few trails to ride close by as well.

Rocky Knob park in Boone has some pretty cool skills areas and pump track also.  Might be worth adding to your day trip list if you want to check out something different.

Is that the place behind Sunrift Adventures in Travelers Rest? I was gonna go there one day but plans fell through.

I wholly agree. I wish we could build up a skills area in town that progresses. There are some things around, but its too far and few. I've been wishing for something like this in the area for quite some time... 

Looks like something to check out next time I'm in that area! Thanks for sharing.